bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid antidepressant effect of ketamine correlates with astroglial plasticity in the hippocampus
Authors: Ardalan Maryam , Rafati Ali H. , Nyengaard Jens R. , Wegener Gregers
Published: January 2017

Background and purpose

Astroglia contribute to the pathophysiology of major depression and antidepressant drugs act by modulating synaptic plasticity; therefore, the present study investigated whether the fast antidepressant action of ketamine is reflected in a rapid alteration of the astrocytes’ morphology in a genetic animal model of depression.

Experimental Approach

S‐Ketamine (15 mg·kg−1) or saline was administered as a single injection to Flinders Line (FSL/ FRL) rats. Twenty‐four hours after the treatment, perfusion fixation was carried out and the morphology of glial fibrillary acid protein (GFAP)‐positive astrocytes in the CA1 stratum radiatum (CA1.SR) and the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus (GCL) of the hippocampus was investigated by applying stereological techniques and analysis with Imaris software. The depressive‐like behaviour of animals was also evaluated using forced swim test.

Key Results

FSL rats treated with ketamine exhibited a significant reduction in immobility time in comparison with the FSL‐vehicle group. The volumes of the hippocampal CA1.SR and GCL regions were significantly increased 1 day after ketamine treatment in the FSL rats. The size of astrocytes in the ketamine‐treated FSL rats was larger than those in the FSL‐vehicle group. Additionally, the number and length of the astrocytic processes in the CA1.SR region were significantly increased 1 day following ketamine treatment.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results support the hypothesis that astroglial atrophy contributes to the pathophysiology of depression and a morphological modification of astrocytes could be one mechanism by which ketamine rapidly improves depressive behaviour.
Institutional environment and bank loans: Evidence from 25 developing countries
Authors: Qian Xianhang , Cao Tingqiu , Cao Chunfang
Published: January 2017

Manuscript Type:

Empirical

Research Question/Issue:

This study tries to verify the impact of institutional environment, namely legal protection, law enforcement, trust and religion, on bank loans in the context of developing countries. In addition, we investigate the interactive effect of formal and informal institutions.

Research Findings/Insights:

Using survey data on enterprises from 25 developing countries, we find that institutional environment can significantly affect bank loans in developing countries. Compared with formal institutions, informal ones are relatively efficient at alleviating enterprises’ financial constraints, while law enforcement is more important than legal protection within the set of formal institutions. The split‐sample tests indicate that informal and formal institutions have substitutive effects on firms’ loan financing.

Theoretical/Academic Implications:

This study provides evidence of the impact of institutions on loan contracts in developing countries and sheds light on the importance of law enforcement and informal institutions. It suggests new avenues of research on the loan contract from a neo‐institutional perspective.

Practitioner/Policy Implications:

This study offers inspiration to the governments of developing countries interested in promoting enterprise development. In addition, it provides efficient methods that entrepreneurs can use to reduce the financing constraints on enterprises in the context of lower legal protection.
Uncommon castration complication: Penile amputation and sheath ablation following an iatrogenic phallectomy
Authors: Beavers K. N. , Mitchell C.
Published: January 2017

This report describes the repair of an iatrogenic phallectomy that occurred during an attempted castration of a horse that was discovered to be a unilateral cryptorchid (inguinal testis). Use of a modification of a described phallectomy and sheath ablation technique allowed penile retroversion to be avoided, decreasing excessive dissection and post‐operative morbidity, despite the urethral orifice being positioned more caudally than previously reported.
Desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the deep digital flexor tendon for treatment of chronic deep digital flexor tendinopathy in three Quarter Horses
Authors: Humbach K. E. , Gutierrez‐Nibeyro S. D.
Published: January 2017

Effective treatments for horses diagnosed with severe deep digital flexor (DDF) tendinopathy are limited. In this study, three Quarter Horses diagnosed with severe bilateralDDFtendinopathy underwent bilateral desmotomy of the accessory ligament of theDDFtendon after failing to respond to conservative therapy. Lameness markedly improved in all three horses. Given that severeDDFtendinopathy is typically associated with persistent or recurrent lameness, desmotomy of the accessory ligament of theDDFtendon might be a treatment option to alleviate lameness in horses withDDFtendinopathy. This treatment option appears promising; however, a larger number of cases is necessary to support the results in these three horses.
Impact of porosity and thickness of nano‐TiO2 films on the corrosion protection performance of C‐steel in H2SO4
Authors: Khalaf Mai , Abd El‐Lateef Hany
Published: January 2017

The current study investigates the improvement in the corrosion protection performance of C‐steel after being dip‐coated with nano films from both pure TiO2 and poly ethylene glycol (PEG) modified TiO2. Characterization of the deposited TiO2 films was performed by different techniques. Effect of morphology, porosity, and thickness of the deposited TiO2 layers were also studied. Results revealed an increased corrosion protection of both coated TiO2 films as compared to uncoated samples, with pure TiO2 (without PEG) samples showing higher protection. Moreover, increasing the layer thickness of both types of TiO2 coated films improved the protective properties.
Human leucocyte antigen–adverse drug reaction associations: from a perspective of ethnicity
Authors: Ghattaoraya G. S. , Middleton D. , Santos E. J. M. , Dickson R. , Jones A. R. , Alfirevic A.
Published: January 2017

Whilst immune‐mediated adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are rare, they are potentially life‐threatening and present a major problem for clinicians. The underlying mechanisms that cause ADRs are not fully understood although genomewide association studies (GWAS) and case–control investigations have associated human leucocyte antigen (HLA) alleles as risk factors. There is evidence that a patient's ethnic background can have an impact on their risk of developing an ADR. This review summarizes the evidence related to HLA alleles and ADRs with particular focus on patient ethnicity. Our analysis indicated that many of the alleles which have been associated with ADRs are found at higher frequencies in Asian populations. The data also showed that many of the alleles that are reported to be statistically significantly associated with ADRs are in linkage disequilibrium with each other and that they form haplotypes specific to certain ethnicities indicating at least some of the allele associations may not be causal.
Influence of device accuracy and choice of algorithm for species distribution modelling of seabirds: a case study using black‐browed albatrosses
Authors: Quillfeldt Petra , Engler Jan O. , Silk Janet R.D. , Phillips Richard A.
Published: January 2017

Species distribution models (SDM) based on tracking data from different devices are used increasingly to explain and predict seabird distributions. However, different tracking methods provide different data resolutions, ranging from < 10 m to > 100 km. To better understand the implications of this variation, we modeled the potential distribution of black‐browed albatrosses Thalassarche melanophris from South Georgia that were simultaneously equipped with a platform terminal transmitter (PTT) (high resolution) and a global location sensor (GLS) logger (coarse resolution), and measured the overlap of the respective potential distribution for a total of nine different SDM algorithms. We found slightly better model fits for the PTT than for GLS data (AUC values 0.958 ± 0.048 vs 0.95 ± 0.05) across all algorithms. The overlaps of the predicted distributions were higher between device types for the same algorithm, than among algorithms for either device type. Uncertainty arising from coarse‐resolution location data is therefore lower than that associated with the modeling technique. Consequently, the choice of an appropriate algorithm appears to be more important than device type when applying SDMs to seabird tracking data. Despite their low accuracy, GLS data appear to be effective for analyzing the habitat preferences and distribution patterns of pelagic species.
The biological background of a recurrently emerging infectious disease: prevalence, diversity and host specificity of Avipoxvirus in wild Neotropical birds
Authors: Moens Michaël A. J. , Pérez‐Tris Javier , Milá Borja , Benítez Laura
Published: January 2017

Understanding which factors promote disease emergence and transmission remains a major challenge of epidemiology. A problem with research on emerging diseases is that we seldom know to what extent pathogens circulate in natural populations before emergence is already occurring. Moreover, it is critical to determine which pathogen characteristics are key to predict their emergence and invasion potential. We examined the prevalence, host specificity and evolutionary relationships of Avipoxvirus causing skin lesions in birds in two megadiverse and unexplored geographical regions of South America: an elevational gradient in the south Ecuadorian Andes, and a lowland Amazon rainforest in French Guiana. Next, we analyzed the host specificity and distribution of the worldwide Avipoxvirus diversity in order to understand their invasion potential. In French Guiana Avipoxvirus prevalence was 0% (n = 889, 94 bird species). In Ecuador, prevalence was 0.3% (n = 941, 132 bird species), with cases spanning the range of elevations between 1500 and 2500 m. These were caused by two newly described strains, one of which belonged to an American clade of Avipoxvirus shared by different bird families, and another one closely related to a strain recovered from a different family of birds in Madeira. An analysis of the host specificity and geographic distribution of all Avipoxvirus strains known worldwide finds that these viruses are usually host generalists (particularly those in the fowlpox clade), and that many closely related strains are found on multiple continents. Our study at the community level suggests that distantly related Avipoxvirus strains circulate at very low prevalence in continental tropical South America. Avipoxvirus assemblages are composed of generalist strains with different ancestry and widespread distribution, a combination of characteristics which may make these typically scarce viruses perfect candidates to emerge under favorable ecological conditions.
Screening and treating Helicobacter pylori infection for gastric cancer prevention on the population level
Authors: Lee Yi‐Chia , Lin Jaw‐Town
Published: January 2017

Helicobacter pylori infection is the major cause of gastric cancer, and removal of H. pylori infection from a population could theoretically decrease the number of cases by about 89%. However, in real‐life settings, few studies have reported the effect of screening and treating this pathogen in population‐based programs. This is mainly because of the lack of an adequate infrastructure for delivery of systematic screening services to asymptomatic individuals, the lack of standardization to ensure that each subject receives the correct diagnostic testing and antibiotic treatment, and limited resources. We illustrate our method of implementing two population‐based screen‐and‐treat programs in Taiwan, where the epidemiological characteristics of disease burden have changed from the traditionally Eastern pattern towards that of the Western countries. Our first example is a high‐risk population that resides on an offshore island, in which a strategy of mass eradication of H. pylori was applied. The other example is an intermediate‐risk population, which is representative of the general average‐risk population, in which there is integration of the screen‐and‐treat method with the established framework of colorectal cancer screening using the fecal‐occult blood test. The information provided here may be useful for integration of gastric cancer prevention measures into the healthcare priorities of populations with different gastric cancer risks, such as those with limited resources.
CpG island methylator phenotype is an independent predictor of survival after curative resection for colorectal cancer: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Chang Hyun , Huh Jung Wook , Kim Hyeong Rok , Kim Young Jin
Published: January 2017

Background and Aims

The CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) is found in approximately 30% of colorectal cancer (CRC) cases. However, the role of CIMP status in predicting oncologic outcomes in curatively resected CRC is still unclear.

Study

Between January 2006 and December 2006, we retrospectively reviewed 157 consecutive patients who underwent curative surgery for CRC. Prognostic significance of CIMP status was evaluated using reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results

CIMP‐high (H) and CIMP‐none/low (N/L) tumors were found in 50 cases (31.8%) and 107 cases (68.2%), respectively. CIMP‐H tumors were significantly associated with female sex, colonic location, poorly/mucinous histologic type, higher T category, perineural invasion, and MSI‐high status (P = 0.001). During a median of 64.5 months, tumor recurrence developed in 47 (29.9%) patients. The 5‐year disease‐free survival for CIMP‐H and CIMP‐N/L was 61.4% and 76.3% (P = 0.018). In addition, multivariate analysis showed that CIMP‐H was also a significant prognostic factor (P = 0.042). When analysis was performed according to anatomical location, more marked survival differences were observed in patients with colon cancer (P = 0.026) than in patients with rectal cancer (P = 0.210). Similarly, the role of CIMP status as a prognostic indicator was more prominent in patients with stage I/II (P = 0.006) than in patients with stage III/IV CRC (P = 0.65).

Conclusions

DNA methylation status can be considered as a useful predictor of survival after CRC surgery, particularly for patients with stage I/II disease or colon cancer.
Influence of P-glycoprotein on the disposition of fexofenadine and its enantiomers
Authors: Li Fei , Howard Karyn D , Myers Michael J
Published: January 2017

Objectives

P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is responsible for the efflux of a broad variety of human and veterinary drugs. Canine P-gp polymorphisms alter drug disposition and toxicity, but their impact on the disposition of enantiomeric drugs is unknown. Using fexofenadine as a model compound, we developed and validated HPLC–fluorescence methods to determine the effect of P-gp on the disposition of fexofenadine and its enantiomers.

Methods

A chiral CD-Ph column was used for the separation of (R) and (S)-fexofenadine. Determination of racemic fexofenadine was achieved on an XDB-CN column. Fexofenadine and its enantiomers were detected by fluorescence at the excitation wavelength of 220 nm and emission wavelength of 300 nm. These methods were used to measure concentrations of fexofenadine and its enantiomers in Collie plasma after oral administration.

Key findings

This study demonstrates that P-gp prefers to transport (S)-fexofenadine, and P-gp deficiency causes the increase in both (R)-fexofenadine and (S)-fexofenadine in plasma. Racemic fexofenadine, (R)-fexofenadine and (S)-fexofenadine were increased in ABCB1-1Δ Collies (118.7, 72.0 and 48.3 ng/ml) compared to wild-type Collies (25.0, 16.5 and 7.7 ng/ml) at 1 h postadministration. The results demonstrate that the stereoselectivity of P-gp plays a key role in the disposition of fexofenadine enantiomers.

Conclusions

The information derived from this drug model will be used to determine whether additional safety or efficacy requirements are necessary for enantiomeric drugs that would be used in dogs or humans.
Population dynamics of hepatitis C virus subtypes in injecting drug users on methadone maintenance treatment in China associated with economic and health reform
Authors: Zhou S. , Cella E. , Zhou W. , Kong W.‐H. , Liu M.‐Q. , Liu P.‐L. , Ciccozzi M. , Salemi M. , Chen X.
Published: January 2017

The extensive genetic heterogeneity of hepatitis C virus (HCV) requires in‐depth understanding of the population dynamics of different viral subtypes for more effective control of epidemic outbreaks. We analysed HCV sequences data from 125 participants in Wuhan, China. These participants were newly infected by subtype 1b (n=13), 3a (n=15), 3b (n=50) and 6a (n=39) while on methadone maintenance treatment (MMT). Bayesian phylogenies and demographic histories were inferred for these subtypes. Participants infected with HCV‐1b and 3a were clustered in well‐supported monophyletic clades, indicating local subepidemics. Subtypes 3b and 6a strains were intermixed with other Chinese isolates, as well as isolates from other Asian countries, reflecting ongoing across geographic boundary transmissions. Subtypes 1b and 3a declined continuously during the past ten years, consistent with the health and economic reform in China, while subtype 3b showed ongoing exponential growth and 6a was characterized by several epidemic waves, possibly related to the recently growing number of travellers between China and other Asian countries. In conclusion, results of this study suggest that HCV subtype 3b and 6a subepidemics in China are currently not under control, and new epidemic waves may emerge given the rapid increase in international travelling following substantial economic growth.
The trans‐Saharan spring migration of Yellow wagtails (Motacilla flava)
Authors: Wood Brian
Published: January 2017

By considering the weights of the heaviest members of a population of Yellow wagtails about to emigrate from northern Nigeria, estimates of the mean weight of each sex at take‐off are derived. These are used to predict changes in weight and flight speed during a non‐stop trans‐Saharan flight. For most birds the duration of this flight will be 60–70 h, enabling them just to attain the northern side of the desert. Some birds may resort to partial dehydration to achieve this, but extensive dehydration is not apparent for most birds caught towards the end of the flight. It is apparently essential that favourable winds occur during the flight; even slight head winds are likely to produce heavy mortalities. Because Yellow wagtails depart on a trans‐Saharan crossing with just enough reserves to achieve this, adverse winds, difficult conditions immediately north or south of the desert, or any avoidable extension of the flight are all likely to impose considerable selection pressures. Therefore, probably all Yellow wagtails move gradually northward in Nigeria, to the southern margins of the desert, where they may still obtain adequate food, and there await favourable meteorological conditions before embarking.
Epigenetic variation in a fluctuating population of lemming (Lemmus lemmus) in Norway
Authors: Andersen Trond , Wiig øystein
Published: January 2017

Epigenetic polymorphism in the Norway lemming was studied in material collected at four localities in the Finse area in SW. Norway in 1973–74 and in 1977. A total of 266 specimens were scored for 33 non‐metric traits on the skull, mandibula, scapula and pelvis.

Temporally succeeding samples from increase and peak phase showed that the genetic constitution of the population changed during the density cycle; the most rapid change took place immediately before the crash. The genetic constitution of the population remained within the same range from one cycle to the next, giving the impression that genetic drift is of minor significance. Samples taken at different localities during the late increase phase, showed that the variants were nearly uniformly distributed in the Finse area, indicating a high dispersal rate. The variation in the bilateral traits seemed to decrease with increasing population density, presumably as a result of stabilizing selection. The value of epigenetic polymorphism as a reflection of change in behavioural traits is discussed.
The Sheath‐tailed bat, Coleura seychellensis (Chiroptera: Emballonuridae) in the Seychelles Islands
Authors: Nicoll M. E. , Suttie J. M.
Published: January 2017

The present distribution of Coleura seychellensis and its roost sites are described, together with observations on roosting behaviour. Parturition occurred each November/December throughout the three‐year study period and coincided with one of the two annual rainfall peaks. The occurrence of young in April during the third year of observation suggests the possibility of polyoestry. Evidence for the decline in abundance of this species is presented and discussed.
Quantitative estimation of islet tissue of pancreas in possums (Trichosurus vulpecula)
Authors: Edwin Nalini
Published: January 2017

The pancreas of six possums, both male andi female were isolated. The relationship between the weight of the pancreas and the weight of the animal was then calculated. Sections were stained with haemotoxylin and eosin and islet tissue mass estimated using a linear scanning technique in each of the regions of the pancreas: head neck, body and tail. A uniform distribution was shown. The relationship between the average islet mass and body weight was calculated. Sections were stained with aldehyde fuchsin in each of the regions, head, neck, body and tail using a Wild‐M501 semiautomatic sampling microscope. Beta Grimelius' silver nitrate stain in each of the regions: head, neck, body and tail. The alpha cells were also estimated by using a Wild‐M501 sampling microscope and a uniform distribution was shown.
The Salto Vitale Method in Philosophy
Authors: Goldstick D.
Published: January 2017

Did G. E. Moore prove the existence of things outside us? Philosophers have objected to his proof, but not for good reasons. Since when, for instance, has absolute certainty been the mark of philosophy? But Moore's proof was superfluous, as its conclusion had already been proved previously. (If immanent critique were the only acceptable way to refute a philosophy rationally, “Nothing exists” would be immune from refutation—which is preposterous.)
Parenting styles and body mass index: a systematic review of prospective studies among children
Authors: Sokol R. L. , Qin B. , Poti J. M.
Published: January 2017

Background

Parenting style may be an important determinant of an individual's future weight status. However, reviews that evaluate the relationship between parenting style and weight‐related outcomes have not focused on prospective studies.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase and PsychInfo for studies published between 1995 and 2016 that evaluated the prospective relationship between parenting style experienced in childhood and subsequent weight outcomes.

Results

We identified 11 prospective cohort studies. Among the eight studies that categorized parenting style into distinct groups (i.e. authoritative, authoritarian, permissive and neglectful), five provided evidence that authoritative parenting was associated with lower body mass index gains. Among the six highest quality studies, four suggested a protective role of authoritative parenting style against adverse weight‐related outcomes. However, only one study controlled for a comprehensive set of confounders, and the small number of studies conducted within certain age groups precluded our ability to ascertain critical periods when parenting style is most strongly related to child weight.

Conclusions

The present literature supports the idea that authoritative parenting may be protective against later overweight and obesity, although findings are mixed. More prospective cohort studies of longer durations, with more sophisticated methods that examine age‐varying relationships, and that control for a comprehensive set of confounders, are needed.
Explaining ecological shifts: the roles of temperature and primary production in the long‐term dynamics of benthic faunal composition
Authors: Clare David S. , Spencer Matthew , Robinson Leonie A. , Frid Christopher L. J.
Published: January 2017

Predicting the ecological consequences of environmental change requires that we can identify the drivers of long‐term ecological variation. Biological assemblages can exhibit abrupt deviations from temporal trends, potentially resulting in irreversible shifts in species composition over short periods of time. Such dynamics are hypothesised to occur as gradual forcing eventually causes biological thresholds to be crossed, but could also be explained by biota simply tracking abrupt changes to their environment. Here, we modelled temporal variation in a North Sea benthic faunal assemblage over a 40‐year period (1972–2012) to test for changes to temporal trends of biota and determine whether they could be explained by underlying patterns in sea temperature and primary production. These extrinsic factors were postulated to influence community dynamics through their roles in determining and sustaining the metabolic demands of organisms, respectively. A subset of mainly large and long‐lived taxa (those loaded on the first principal component of taxa densities) exhibited two significant changes to their temporal trends, which culminated in a shift in assemblage composition. These changes were explained by an increase in pelagic primary production, and hence detrital food input to the seabed, but were unrelated to variation in sea temperature. A second subset of mainly small and short‐lived taxa (those loaded on the second principal component) did not experience any significant changes to their temporal trends, as enhanced pelagic primary production appeared to mitigate the impact of warming on these organisms. Our results suggest that abrupt ecological shifts can occur as biota track underlying variation in extrinsic factors, in this case primary production. Changes to the structure of ecosystems may therefore be predictable based on environmental change projections.
Bortezomib in the treatment of antibody‐mediated rejection in pediatric kidney transplant recipients: A multicenter Midwest Pediatric Nephrology Consortium study
Authors: Kizilbash Sarah , Claes Donna , Ashoor Isa , Chen Ashton , Jandeska Sara , Matar Raed Bou , Misurac Jason , Sherbotie Joseph , Twombley Katherine , Verghese Priya
Published: January 2017

Antibody‐mediated rejection leads to allograft loss after kidney transplantation. Bortezomib has been used in adults for the reversal of antibody‐mediated rejection; however, pediatric data are limited. This retrospective study was conducted in collaboration with the Midwest Pediatric Nephrology Consortium. Pediatric kidney transplant recipients who received bortezomib for biopsy‐proven antibody‐mediated rejection between 2008 and 2015 were included. The objective was to characterize the use of bortezomib in pediatric kidney transplant recipients. Thirty‐three patients received bortezomib for antibody‐mediated rejection at nine pediatric kidney transplant centers. Ninety percent of patients received intravenous immunoglobulin, 78% received plasmapheresis, and 78% received rituximab. After a median follow‐up of 15 months, 65% of patients had a functioning graft. The estimated glomerular filtration rate improved or stabilized in 61% and 36% of patients at 3 and 12 months post‐bortezomib, respectively. The estimated glomerular filtration rate at diagnosis significantly predicted estimated glomerular filtration rate at 12 months after adjusting for chronic histologic changes (P .001). Fifty‐six percent of patients showed an at least 25% reduction in the mean fluorescence intensity of the immune‐dominant donor‐specific antibody, 1‐3 months after the first dose of bortezomib. Non‐life‐threatening side effects were documented in 21 of 33 patients. Pediatric kidney transplant recipients tolerated bortezomib without life‐threatening side effects. Bortezomib may stabilize estimated glomerular filtration rate for 3‐6 months in pediatric kidney transplant recipients with antibody‐mediated rejection.
Flg22‐triggered oxylipin production in Pyropia haitanensis
Authors: Tu Shisheng , Yang Rui , Xu Xia , Chen Juanjuan , Luo Qijun , Zhu Zhujun , Chen Haimin , Yan Xiaojun
Published: January 2017

This study provides evidence that flg22, the most conserved 22‐amino acid peptide in the N‐terminal part of bacterial flagellin can trigger the defense responses of Pyropia haitanensis (Bangiales, Rhodophyta). The defense responses are a chain of events including release of H2O2 and free unsaturated fatty acids C20:4, consumption of C18:3, and the chemical or enzymatic oxidation of both C20 and C18 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Oxidized C20 and C18 fatty acids lead to the production of corresponding hydroperoxy and hydroxylated derivatives, such as 9‐hydroperoxy octadecadienoic acid, 8‐hydroperoxy eicosapentaenoic acid, and 8‐hydroxyl eicosapentaenoic acid, which could be further oxidatively metabolized to yield saturated aldehydes and ketone. Changes of three typical hormones jasmonate, methyl jasmonate, and salicylic acid were observed. Contrary to the increase of jasmonate and methyl jasmonate, salicylic acid was decreased. The expression of key enzymes of oxylipin pathway PhLOX and PhLOX2 were upregulated. However, some defense and antioxidant related genes including PhHsp 70, Phsod , and PhRboh were downregulated markedly at the early stage of flg22 challenge. Overall, our results imply that red algae have evolved a similar defense response and may share the conservative‐recognizing receptor for flg22 as in higher plants.
Efficacy of topical insulin in wound healing: A preliminary systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Sridharan Kannan , Sivaramakrishnan Gowri
Published: January 2017

Topical insulin has been shown to promote wound healing in various studies. Considering the absence of a systematic review and quantitative synthesis on the same, the present study was carried out. Using an appropriate search strategy, electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials that have compared topical application of insulin in wounds with normal saline. Standardize mean differences were calculated for the following outcome measures: healing rate of ulcers/wound, percent granulation tissue growth, microvessel density, time to heal, wound area and ulcer severity score. Cochrane's risk of bias tool was used for each of the studies and RevMan 5.3 software was used to generate the pooled estimates and Forest plots. The quality of evidence was assessed by the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) working group approach. A total of 8 studies were found eligible to be included in this review and 7 for the meta‐analysis. The pooled estimates were as follows: healing rate—0.04 [−1.38, 1.46]; percent granulation tissue—10.99 [−10.07, 32.06], microvessel density—3.01 [−1.67, 7.69] and wound area—−6.59 [−9.7, −3.48]. There was only one study for each of the following outcome measures: time to heal and ulcer severity score. Hence, pooling of the results was not attempted for these outcome measures. The studies conducted in this field were preliminary and it was difficult to draw any conclusion regarding the use of insulin topically for wound healing.
An Examination of the Merchandise Imports Demand Function for Egypt
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed Abbas
Published: January 2017

Merchandise imports in Egypt is growing steadily and very rapidly, at an average growth rate of 10.64 percent/year during 1970-2014. So, this study is very important to know the merchandise imports determinants in Egyptian economy. This study empirically estimates the critical parameters of merchandise import demand determinants for Egypt by using Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) approach and Error Correction model during the period (1970-2014).The empirical results confirm that, in both long run and short run, there is positive and significant relationship between the demand for merchandise imports and real gross domestic product, but there is a negative and significant relationship between the demand of merchandise imports and real effective exchange rate. On the other hand, in the long run, there are positive and significant relationships between the demand for merchandise imports and both of inflation and international reserves but insignificant relationships in the short run.
The last frontiers of wilderness: Tracking loss of intact forest landscapes from 2000 to 2013
Authors: Potapov Peter , Hansen Matthew C. , Laestadius Lars , Turubanova Svetlana , Yaroshenko Alexey , Thies Christoph , Smith Wynet , Zhuravleva Ilona , Komarova Anna , Minnemeyer Susan , Esipova Elena
Published: January 2017

Intact forest landscapes have the greatest conservation value but are shrinking due to industrial logging and fragmentation.
Amylose recognition and ring-size determination of amylomaltase
Authors: Roth Christian , Weizenmann Nicole , Bexten Nicola , Saenger Wolfram , Zimmermann Wolfgang , Maier Timm , Sträter Norbert
Published: January 2017

The crystal structure of amylomaltase provides insights into the interaction of glycoside hydrolases with their polymeric substrate.
Electrospun core-shell microfiber separator with thermal-triggered flame-retardant properties for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Liu Kai , Liu Wei , Qiu Yongcai , Kong Biao , Sun Yongming , Chen Zheng , Zhuo Denys , Lin Dingchang , Cui Yi
Published: January 2017

A novel “smart” separator with thermal-triggered flame-retardant properties for lithium-ion batteries to improve their safety.
Floc Formation Reduces the pH Stress Experienced by Microorganisms Living in Alkaline Environments
Authors: Charles C. J. , Rout S. P. , Patel K. A. , Akbar S. , Laws A. P. , Jackson B. R. , Boxall S. A. , Humphreys P. N.
Published: January 2017

The survival of microorganisms within a cementitious geological disposal facility for radioactive wastes heavily depends on their ability to survive the calcium-dominated, hyperalkaline conditions resulting from the dissolution of the cementitious materials. The results from this study show that the formation of flocs, composed of a complex mixture of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), provides protection against alkaline pH values up to 13.0. The flocs were dominated by
Alishewanella
and
Dietzia
spp., producing a mannose-rich carbohydrate fraction incorporating extracellular DNA, resulting in Ca
2+
sequestration. EPS provided a ∼10-μm thick layer around the cells within the center of the flocs, which were capable of growth at pH values of 11.0 and 11.5, maintaining internal pH values of 10.4 and 10.7, respectively. Microorganisms survived at a pH of 12.0, where an internal floc pH of 11.6 was observed, as was a reduced associated biomass. We observed limited floc survival (<2 weeks) at a pH of 13.0. This study demonstrates that flocs maintain lower internal pHs in response to the hyperalkaline conditions expected to occur within a cementitious geological disposal facility for radioactive wastes and indicates that floc communities within such a facility can survive at pHs up to 12.0.

IMPORTANCE
The role of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the survival of microorganisms in hyperalkaline conditions is poorly understood. Here, we present the taxonomy, morphology, and chemical characteristics of an EPS-based microbial floc, formed by a consortium isolated from an anthropogenic hyperalkaline site. Short-term (<2 weeks) survival of the flocs at a pH of 13 was observed, with indefinite survival observed at a pH of 12.0. Measurements from micro-pH electrodes (10-μm-diameter tip) demonstrated that flocs maintain lower internal pHs in response to hyperalkaline conditions (pH 11.0, 11.5, and 12.0), demonstrating that floc formation and EPS production are survival strategies under hyperalkaline conditions. The results indicate how microbial communities may survive and propagate within the hyperalkaline environment that is expected to prevail in a cementitious geological disposal facility for radioactive wastes; the results are also relevant to the wider extremophile community.
Effects of Lactobacillus plantarum Strain OLL2712 Culture Conditions on the Anti-inflammatory Activities for Murine Immune Cells and Obese and Type 2 Diabetic Mice
Authors: Toshimitsu T. , Ozaki S. , Mochizuki J. , Furuichi K. , Asami Y.
Published: January 2017

Studies on the health-promoting effects of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are numerous, but few provide examples of the relationship between LAB function and culture conditions. We verified the effect of differences in culture conditions on
Lactobacillus plantarum
OLL2712 functionality; this strain exhibits anti-inflammatory activity and preventive effects against metabolic disorders. We measured interleukin-10 (IL-10) and IL-12 production in murine immune cells treated with OLL2712 cells prepared under various culture conditions. The results showed that the IL-10-inducing activities of OLL2712 cells on murine immune cells differed dramatically between OLL2712 groups at different culture phases and using different culture medium components, temperatures, and neutralizing pHs. In particular, exponential-phase cells had much more IL-10-inducing activity than stationary-phase cells. We confirmed that the Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) stimulation activity of OLL2712 cells depended on culture conditions in conjunction with IL-10-inducing activity. We also demonstrated functional differences by culture phases
in vivo
; OLL2712 cells at exponential phase had more anti-inflammatory activity and anti-metabolic-disorder effects on obese and diabetic mice than those by their stationary-phase counterparts. These results suggest that culture conditions affect the functionality of anti-inflammatory LAB.

IMPORTANCE
While previous studies demonstrated that culture conditions affected the immunomodulatory properties of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), few have comprehensively investigated the relationship between culture conditions and LAB functionality. In this study, we demonstrated several culture conditions of
Lactobacillus plantarum
OLL2712 for higher anti-inflammatory activity. We also showed that culture conditions concretely influenced the health-promoting functions of OLL2712
in vivo
, particularly against metabolic disorders. Further, we characterized a novel mechanism by which changing LAB culture conditions affected immunomodulatory properties. Our results suggest that culture condition optimization is important for the production of LAB with anti-inflammatory activity.
P
gas
, a Low-pH-Induced Promoter, as a Tool for Dynamic Control of Gene Expression for Metabolic Engineering of Aspergillus niger
Authors: Yin Xian , Shin Hyun-Dong , Li Jianghua , Du Guocheng , Liu Long , Chen Jian
Published: January 2017

The dynamic control of gene expression is important for adjusting fluxes in order to obtain desired products and achieve appropriate cell growth, particularly when the synthesis of a desired product drains metabolites required for cell growth. For dynamic gene expression, a promoter responsive to a particular environmental stressor is vital. Here, we report a low-pH-inducible promoter, P
gas
, which promotes minimal gene expression at pH values above 5.0 but functions efficiently at low pHs, such as pH 2.0. First, we performed a transcriptional analysis of
Aspergillus niger
, an excellent platform for the production of organic acids, and we found that the promoter P
gas
may act efficiently at low pH. Then, a gene for synthetic green fluorescent protein (
sGFP
) was successfully expressed by P
gas
at pH 2.0, verifying the results of the transcriptional analysis. Next, P
gas
was used to express the
cis
-aconitate decarboxylase (
cad
) gene of
Aspergillus terreus
in
A. niger
, allowing the production of itaconic acid at a titer of 4.92 g/liter. Finally, we found that P
gas
strength was independent of acid type and acid ion concentration, showing dependence on pH only.

IMPORTANCE
The promoter P
gas
can be used for the dynamic control of gene expression in
A. niger
for metabolic engineering to produce organic acids. This promoter may also be a candidate tool for genetic engineering.
Structural analysis of the Kiokee belt and its framing elements
Authors: Dennis Allen J.
Published: January 2017

Eight stops on a one-day field trip along the Savannah River corridor between Plum Branch, South Carolina, and Augusta, Georgia, review the Ediacaran–Cambrian and Pennsylvanian–Permian history of several terranes that comprise Carolinia in the eastern Piedmont. The foliation of ca. 550 Ma andesitic metatuffs of the Persimmon Fork is isoclinally folded. This event may be related to other recognized events in Carolinia at the Cambrian-Precambrian boundary or the folding of the sub–Asbill Pond angular unconformity before the intrusion of the Clouds Creek pluton. Three stops illustrate features of the Modoc zone in the eastern Piedmont. Variably mylonitized Modoc zone orthogneisses were intruded between 300 and 310 Ma. Mylonitic Modoc zone orthogneisses are parasitically folded around the northwest-vergent Kiokee antiform. Monazites from the core of the Kiokee antiform yield TIMS (thermal ionization mass spectrometry) U-Pb ages of ca. 306–308 Ma, and hornblende yields 40Ar/39Ar plateaus of ca. 288 and 296 Ma. Favorably oriented near-vertical segments of the steeply dipping to overturned limb of the Kiokee antiform are reactivated with dextral strike-slip sense and locally preserve spectacular composite planar fabric. The serpentinites at Burks Mountain include serpentinized orthopyroxene and chromite. The origin of these ultramafic rocks may have been at the base of an ophiolite or an ultramafic layered intrusion in the lower continental crust. The ca. 294 Ma Appling granite is undeformed and intrudes the trailing limb of the Kiokee antiform. The Augusta fault frames the southeastern margin of the Kiokee belt schists and gneisses. The fault is known from a single quarry exposure that places low-grade metavolcanics and epiclastic rocks in the hanging wall against footwall gneisses and schists of the Kiokee belt. The most distinctive rocks in the quarry are K-silica-metasomatized mylonites interleaved with chlorite schists. The origin of K and Group I cations is thought to be the retrogression of biotite. Furthermore this metasomatism is thought to have accompanied Triassic rifting. These metasomatic effects are heterogeneously developed in the footwall Kiokee belt gneisses, and are well known in the footwall of the Triassic border fault of the Dunbarton basin, underlying the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Savannah River Site. It is thought that no differential rotation of the eastern Piedmont in this area occurred after ca. 275 Ma. A final stop is made to observe the low-grade metavolcanic rocks of the Belair belt south of the Augusta fault.
Mediterranean style diet is associated with low risk of new-onset diabetes after renal transplantation
Authors: Osté Maryse C J , Corpeleijn Eva , Navis Gerjan J , Keyzer Charlotte A , Soedamah-Muthu Sabita S , van den Berg Else , Postmus Douwe , de Borst Martin H , Kromhout Daan , Bakker Stephan J L
Published: January 2017

Objective

The incidence of new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) and premature mortality is high in renal transplant recipients (RTR). We hypothesized that a Mediterranean Style diet protects against NODAT and premature mortality in RTR.

Research design and methods

A prospective cohort study of adult RTR with a functioning graft for >1 year. Dietary intake was assessed with a 177-item validated food frequency questionnaire. Patients were divided based on a 9-point Mediterranean Style Diet Score (MDS): low MDS (0–4 points) versus high MDS (5–9 points). A total of 468 RTR were eligible for analyses. Logistic multivariable regression analyses were used to study the association of MDS with NODAT and Cox multivariable regression models for the association with all-cause mortality.

Results

Mean±SD age was 51.3±13.2 years and 56.6% were men. About 50% of the patients had a high MDS. During median follow-up of 4.0 (IQR, 0.4–5.4) years, 22 (5%) RTR developed NODAT and 50 (11%) died. High MDS was significantly associated with both a lower risk of NODAT (HR=0.23; 95% CI 0.09 to 0.64; p=0.004) and all-cause mortality (HR=0.51; 95% CI 0.29 to 0.89, p=0.02) compared to low MDS, independent of age and sex. Adjustment for other potential confounders, including total energy intake, physical activity and smoking status, did not materially change the results of the analyses.

Conclusions

Dietary habits leading to high MDS were associated with lower risk of NODAT. These results suggest that healthy dietary habits are of paramount importance for RTR.
Leisure-time sport and overuse injuries of extremities in children age 6–13, a 2.5 years prospective cohort study: the CHAMPS-study DK
Authors: Chéron Charlène , Leboeuf-Yde Charlotte , Le Scanff Christine , Jespersen Eva , Rexen Christina Trifonov , Franz Claudia , Wedderkopp Niels
Published: January 2017

Objectives

It is not known which sports are most likely to cause overuse injuries of the extremities in children. In this study, we report on the incidence of overuse injuries of the upper and lower extremities in children who participate in various leisure-time sports and relate this to the frequency of sport sessions.

Design

Natural experiment including a prospective cohort study.

Setting

10 state schools in 1 Danish municipality: Svendborg.

Participants

1270 children aged 6–13 years participating in the Childhood Health, Activity, and Motor Performance School Study Denmark.

Outcomes measures

Over 2.5 years, parents answered weekly SMS-track messages (a) on type and frequency of leisure-time sports undertaken by their child, and (b) reporting if their child had experienced any musculoskeletal pain. Children with reported pain were examined by a clinician and diagnosed as having an overuse injury of an extremity or not. The incidence of diagnosed overuse injury was calculated for each of the 9 most common sports in relation to 5-week periods. Incidence by frequency of sessions was calculated, and multivariable analysis was performed taking into account age, sex and frequency of physical education classes at school.

Results

Incidence of overuse injuries of the lower extremity ranged from 0.2 to 3.3 for the 9 sports, but was near 0 for overuse injuries of the upper extremities. There was no obvious dose–response. The multivariate analysis showed soccer and handball to be the sports most likely to result in an overuse injury.

Conclusions

Among a general population of schoolchildren, overuse injuries of the lower extremities were not common and overuse injuries of the upper extremities were rare. Organised leisure-time sport, as practised in Denmark, can be considered a safe activity for children.