bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Template‐Free Synthesis of Porous Fe3O4/SiOC(H) Nanocomposites with Enhanced Catalytic Activity
Authors: Yu Zhaoju , Zhang Pei , Feng Yao , Li Shuang , Pei Yaxing
Published: May 2016

We present a template‐free synthesis of Fe3O4/SiOC(H) nanocomposites with in situ formed Fe3O4 nanoparticles with a size of about 50 nm embedded in a nanoporous SiOC(H) matrix obtained via a polymer‐derived ceramic route. Firstly, a single‐source precursor (SSP) was synthesized by the reaction of allylhydridopolycarbosilane (AHPCS) with Fe‐acetylacetonate [Fe(acac)3] at 140°C. The SSP was heat‐treated at 170°C to generate Fe3O4 nanocrystals in the cross‐linked polymeric matrix. Subsequently, the SSP was pyrolyzed at 600°C–700°C in argon atmosphere to yield porous Fe3O4/SiOC(H) nanocomposites with the high BET surface area up to 390 m2/g, a high micropore surface area of 301 m2/g, and a high micropore volume of 0.142 cm3/g. The Fe‐free SiOC(H) ceramic matrix derived from original AHPCS is nonporous. The in situ formation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles embedded homogeneously within a nanoporous SiOC(H) matrix shows significantly enhanced catalytic degradation of xylene orange in aqueous solution with H2O2 as oxidant as compared with pure commercial Fe3O4 nanoparticles.
Long‐Term Follow‐Up of Ictal Asystole in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: Is Permanent Pacemaker Therapy Needed?
Authors: KOHNO RITSUKO , ABE HARUHIKO , AKAMATSU NAOKI , BENDITT DAVID G.
Published: May 2016

Pacemaker Therapy for Ictal Asystole

Background

Ictal asystole (IA) is an infrequent complication of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), but one that may cause transient loss of consciousness (T‐LOC) similar to reflex syncope (particularly the vasovagal faint). Although IA‐triggered T‐LOC is relatively rare, its recognition is therapeutically important. However, while the need for anti‐epileptic drugs (AeDs) is broadly accepted, cardiac pacing in IA is controversial. This study aimed to evaluate the need for cardiac pacing in the follow‐up of IA patients being treated with AeDs.

Methods and Results

Six patients (2 men, mean age of 66 ± 16 years), with documented prolonged asystole on electrocardiogram (ECG) in association with TLE, were followed for an average of 19.7 (range, 2–37) years; a pacemaker had been implanted in 4 of 6 patients, whereas 2 patients underwent long‐term ECG monitoring with an implantable loop recorder (ILR). The longest documented IA pause lasted 12.6 ± 6.2 (range: 3.5–20) seconds. All patients were treated with AeDs. During follow‐up, after optimization of AeD dosing, none of the patients had T‐LOC spells or detected epileptic seizure episodes. During regular device interrogation, there was no evidence of pacing interventions (cumulative ventricular pacing, 0%) in the 4 pacemaker patients, and no symptomatic bradyarrhythmias in the 2 ILR patients.

Conclusions

AeD therapy was effective to prevent IA in this cohort of TLE patients with prior IA. Consequently, pacemaker implantation is not immediately indicated for IA prevention, but should be reserved for those cases in which there is documented failure of AeD therapy.
Spray Dried Xanthone: Physicochemical Properties, Storage Stability and Controlled Release
Authors: Wan Boon‐Keng , Siow Lee‐Fong
Published: May 2016

Xanthone has low aqueous solubility, thus limiting its food application. The aim of this study is to increase aqueous solubility of xanthone through spray drying xanthone in fish oil with maltodextrin and gum Arabic. Powder yield and microencapsulation efficiency at inlet temperature of 120 °C and wall‐to‐core ratio of 6:1 were 63.0 ± 2.0% and 50.8 ± 2.0%, respectively. Solubility of spray dried xanthone increased from 3.2 ± 0.2 µg/mL for free xanthone to 128.3 ± 5.6 µg/mL (approximately 40‐fold increase). Storage condition of 33% RH showed no structural changes for powder; thus, it is recommended as the suitable storage condition for spray dried xanthone. Approximately 37.2 ± 4.8% of xanthone was released in simulated gastrointestinal fluid after 6 h. Spray‐dried xanthone is potentially used as a potential functional food ingredient.

Practical Applications

Xanthone has gained much attention from the public as it exhibited antioxidant, antibacterial, anticancer, anti‐inflammatory and antimalarial activities. Its poor aqueous solubility, however, limits the application of xanthone in food and pharmaceutical industries. The current work is significant to improve the aqueous solubility of xanthone and to protect xanthone from oxidation (Beelders et al. 2015). The improved aqueous solubility of xanthone microcapsules is practical for functional food product development and also for improved bioavailability of xanthone.
Rheological and Physicochemical Modification of trans‐Free Blends of Palm Stearin and Soybean Oil by Chemical Interesterification
Authors: Naeli Mohammad Hossein , Farmani Jamshid , Zargaraan Azizollaah
Published: May 2016

In this study, binary blends of palm stearin and soybean oil were interesterified using sodium methoxide. The changes in free fatty acids (FFA), slip melting point (SMP), solid fat content (SFC), plastic range, induction period of oxidation at 120 °C (IP120) and rheological properties of fat blends, before and after interesterification, were investigated. All blends were trans‐free and contained high essential fatty acids content. Interesterification modified the melting properties of fat blends by reducing SMP and SFC. FFA increased and IP120 decreased after interesterification. Strain sweep, frequency sweep and temperature sweep tests were used to evaluate the rheology of fats. Briefly, the 10:90 and 30:70 (palm stearin : soybean oil) interesterified blends displayed increased storage (G′) and loss (G″) moduli, as compared with the initial blends. However, G′ and G″ moduli of interesterified 50:50 blend were lower than those of initial blends. The elastic character of interesterified 10:90, 30:70 and 50:50 blends was predominant up to 28.8, 37.9, and 41.8 °C, respectively. The interesterified blends of palm stearin and soybean oil showed desirable characteristics suited for production of trans‐free soft tub, stick and Baker's margarine, all‐purpose shortening and Iranian vanaspati.

Practical Applications

Intake of high amounts of trans fatty acid (TFA) has been correlated with increased risk of heart diseases. In this context, chemical interesterification is an important technological option for production of trans‐free fats with different food applications. The results obtained here provide information about the scientific aspects of the effect of interesterification on rheological and physicochemical properties of palm stearin and soybean oil blends. Practically, this study can find its application in development of formulations for production of trans‐free fat products such as liquid, soft tub, stick and baker's margarine, all‐purpose shortenings and Iranian vanaspati.
Comparison of creatinine and cystatin formulae with 51Chromium‐ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid glomerular filtration rate in patients with decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Cholongitas Evangelos , Ioannidou Maria , Goulis Ioannis , Chalevas Parthenis , Ntogramatzi Fani , Athanasiadou Zoi , Notopoulos Athanasios , Alevroudis Manolis , Sinakos Emmanouil , Akriviadis Evangelos
Published: May 2016

Background and Aim

Evaluation of renal function, that is, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), has become very important, but conventional mathematical formulae for GFR assessment are inaccurate in patients with cirrhosis. The aim of the present study was to compare serum creatinine (sCr)‐based and serum cystatin C (cysC)‐based estimated GFR (eGFR) formulae with 51Chromium‐ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid GFR (51Chr‐GFR) in patients with stable decompensated cirrhosis.

Methods

In 129 Caucasian patients with decompensated cirrhosis, we assessed sCr‐based GFRs [Modification of Diet in Renal Disease and chronic kidney disease–epidemiology (CKD‐EPI)‐sCr formulae], cysC‐based GFRs [Hoek, Larsson, and CKD‐EPI‐cysC equations], and the mathematical formulae, which combined both sCr and cysC [i.e. CKD‐EPI‐sCr‐cysC and the specific for cirrhotics formula recently proposed by Mindikoglu et al. (Mindikoglu‐eGFR)]. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used for GFR predictors in our cohort.

Results

The correlations between 51Chr‐GFR and all mathematical formulae were good (Spearman r2 > 0.68, P < 0.001). Modification of Diet in Renal Disease and CKD‐EPI‐sCr had lower bias (6.6 and −4.8, respectively), compared with the other eGFRs, while Mindikoglu‐eGFR and CKD‐EPI‐sCr‐cysC formulae had greater precision (17.1 and 17.3, respectively), compared with the other eGFRs. CKD‐EPI‐sCr and Mindikoglu‐eGFR had higher accuracy (39% and 41%, respectively), compared with the other eGFRs. The factors independently associated with the 51Chr‐GFR were age, cysC, and sCr, and the new derived formula had lower bias (0.89) and similar precision (17.2) and accuracy (41%) with Mindikoglu‐eGFR formula.

Conclusion

The specific mathematical formulae derived from patients with cirrhosis seem to provide superior assessment of renal function, compared with the conventional used sCr‐based and cysC‐based formulae.
Revisiting the segmental organization of the human spinal cord
Authors: Leijnse J. N. , D'Herde K.
Published: May 2016

In classic anatomic atlases, the spinal cord is standardly represented in its anatomical form with symmetrically emerging anterior and posterior roots, which at the level of the intervertebral foramen combine into the spinal nerves. The parts of the cord delimited by the boundaries of the roots are called segments or myelomeres. Associated with their regular repetitive appearance is the notion that the cord is segmentally organized. This segmental view is reinforced by clinical practice. Spinal cord roots innervate specific body parts. The level of cord trauma is diagnosed by the de‐innervation symptoms of these parts. However, systemically, the case for a segmentally organized cord is not so clear. To date, developmental and genetic research points to a regionally rather than a segmentally organized cord. In the present study, to what degree the fila radicularia are segmentally implanted along the cord was investigated. The research hypothesis was that if the fila radicularia were non‐segmentally implanted at the cord surface, it would be unlikely that the internal neuron stratum would be segmented. The visual segmented aspect of the myelomeres would then be the consequence of the necessary bundling of axons towards the vertebral foramen as the only exits of the vertebral canal, rather than of an underlying segment organization of the cord itself. To investigate the research hypothesis, the fila radicularia in the cervical‐upper thoracic part of five spinal cords were detached from their spinal nerves and dissected in detail. The principal research question was if the fila radicularia are separated from their spinal nerves and dissected from their connective tissues up to the cord, would it be possible to reconstruct the original spinal segments from the morphology and interspaces of the fila? The dissections revealed that the anterior fila radicularia emerge from the cord at regular regionally modulated interspaces without systematic segmental delineations. The posterior fila radicularia are somewhat more segmentally implanted, but the pattern is individually inconsistent. The posterior and anterior roots have notable morphological differences, and hypotheses are presented to help explain these. The macroscopic observations are consistent with a regionally but not a segmentally organized cord. This conclusion was visually summarized in photographs of spinal cords with ipsilateral intact roots and contralateral individually dissected fila radicularia. It was suggested that this dual view of the spinal cord be added to the standard anatomic textbooks to counterbalance the current possibly biased view of a segmented cord.
Can nurse innovation improve customer perception of service quality and experience?
Authors: Weng Rhay‐Hung , Chen Wan‐Ping , Huang Ching‐Yuan , Hung Chiu‐Hsia , Hsu Ching‐Tai
Published: May 2016

Aims and objectives

This study aimed to clarify how nurse innovation is related to customer perception of medical service quality and experience.

Background

Recently, many hospitals have put much emphasis upon the development of nurse innovation.

Design

A cross‐sectional study was employed.

Methods

This study adopted questionnaire survey method with nurses and customers of the inpatient wards from three Taiwanese hospitals as the research subjects. After pairing, there were 294 valid questionnaires. Hierarchical regression analysis was utilised to test the possible impact of nurse innovation on medical service quality and experience.

Results

In terms of the dimensions of nurse innovation, ‘innovation behaviour’ ranked the highest (3·24), followed by knowledge creation and innovation diffusion; in terms of the degree of the medical service quality, ‘reliability’ ranked the highest (4·35). As for the degree of the medical service experience, ‘feel experience’ ranked the highest (4·44). All dimensions of nurse innovation have no significant effects on medical service quality and experience.

Conclusion

Of these three dimensions of nurse innovation, the level of innovation behaviour was perceived by the nurses as the highest. The study found that nurse innovation has no significant effects on customer perception of service quality and experience.

Relevance to clinical practice

Hospitals shall provide sufficient resources and budget for fostering innovation development and encourage their nurses to develop nursing innovation for patents. The education and training courses on ‘patient‐centred’ shall be enhanced among hospital nurses. Healthcare managers shall also explore the difficulties about innovation diffusion and find the solutions for nurses.
A Specific Angiographic View of Left Coronary Artery Bifurcation in the Left Main Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Era
Authors: Reis Samir S. A. , Botelho Roberto V. , Abizaid Alexandre , Pereira Antônio D. S. , Alves Rodrigo , de Souza Denis F. , Ferreira‐Filho Sebastião R.
Published: May 2016

Objectives

We propose a right lateral (90–120° RAO) with 30° cranial angiographic view to expose the bifurcation of the left main coronary artery (LMCA) when previously used routine projections were inefficient at clearly showing this region.

Background

Little has been published in the medical literature regarding angiographic projections dedicated to special anatomies.

Methods

A total of 84 patients were subjected to the proposed projections. A reproducibility study, conducted with the participation of 2 independent observers, judged the effectiveness of the proposed projection. The Prevalence and Bias Adjusted Kappa (PABAK) index, with a 95% confidence interval (CI), was used to demonstrate the intensity of intra/inter‐observer agreement.

Results

The proposed projection was efficient in 79% of the angiograms, with agreement of 0.76 (0.6–0.9; P ≤ 0.001). The origins and the proximal segments of: the anterior descending coronary artery were exposed in 89% of the angiograms, agreement of 0.86 (0.7–1.0; P ≤ 0.001); the circumflex artery were exposed in 83% of the angiograms, with agreement of 0.72 (0.5–1.0; P ≤ 0.001); and the intermediate branch, when present, were exposed in 89% of the angiograms, agreement of 0.79 (0.6–1.0; P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

The right lateral (90–120° RAO) with 30° cranial projection is effective, safe, and reproducible. In special situations where routine projections fail, this proposed projection can reveal important details of the anatomy of the bifurcation of the LMCA during conventional coronary angiography or be the working projection during coronary angioplasty. (J Interven Cardiol 2016;29:293–299)
Children Living With Uninsured Family Members: Differences by Family Structure
Authors: Bzostek Sharon , Percheski Christine
Published: May 2016

Despite increased access to insurance through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, uninsurance rates are expected to remain relatively high. Having uninsured family members may expose children to financial hardships. Eligibility rules governing both private and public health insurance are based on outdated expectations about family structure. Using 2009–2011 data from the National Health Interview Survey (N = 65,038), the authors investigated family structure differences in family‐level insurance coverage of households with children. Children living with married biological parents were the least likely to have uninsured family members and most likely to have all family members covered by private insurance. Controlling for demographic characteristics and income, children in single‐mother families had the same risk of having an uninsured family member as children in married‐parent families. Children with cohabiting biological parents had higher rates of family uninsurance than children with married biological parents, even accounting for other characteristics.
Characterization of Commercial Rye Bread Based on Sensory Properties, Fluidity Index and Chemical Acidity
Authors: Sandvik Pernilla , Marklinder Ingela , Nydahl Margaretha , NÆs Tormod , Kihlberg Iwona
Published: May 2016

Rye bread is often considered healthy, especially regarding its potential beneficial effect on blood glucose and insulin regulation, but the characteristics of Swedish rye bread have not previously been described. The aim was to characterize commercial rye bread (n = 24) using sensory descriptive analysis (11 panelists, 15 attributes, 2 replicates), fluidity index (FI; an in vitro measurement to predict glycemic properties), chemical acidity and selected package information. The associations between sensory and chemical measurements were explored to identify the opportunities and challenges of increased consumption of rye bread with potential health benefits.

Six categories of rye bread were identified on the basis of their sensory profiles. The FI indicated that bread from three of the categories possessed beneficial glycemic properties (FI 50–75). These categories contained 31–100% rye, displaying pH 4.3–4.8. Sensory attributes, foremost textural (e.g., chewiness), but also flavor (e.g., sourness), were highly correlated with FI values, thereby revealing their potential to aid consumers, in that they can serve as quality indicators of the glycemic properties of commercial rye bread. However, this also highlights potential sensory barriers to consumption. Front‐of‐package rye and sourdough labels on some samples could potentially mislead consumers given the low content of rye/sourdough, despite the labels.

Practical Applications

The present study explores differences in the sensory profiles and health‐related characteristics of commercial rye breads in Sweden and demonstrates the possibility for industry to use the FI as an in vitro measure of glycemic properties. The study highlights potential challenges and opportunities for consumers in their choice of rye bread with beneficial glycemic properties, i.e., bread types that are valuable, particularly in preventing and managing noncommunicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Results from the present study may be useful for health care professionals providing dietary counseling and also to help the bread industry facilitate consumer choice of healthy rye bread.
China and Latin America's Emerging Economies: New Realities amid Old Challenges
Authors: Wise Carol
Published: May 2016

As China reached a more mature stage of export‐led development at the turn of the millennium, Chinese demand soared for the very commodities that are highly abundant in Latin America. Prices for copper (Chile), iron ore (Brazil), soybeans (Argentina), fishmeal (Peru), and oil (Argentina and Brazil) reached new historical highs. The result was an average annual growth rate of 5–7% in these Latin American emerging economies from 2003 to 2012, but the slowing of Chinese growth in 2012 and the saturation of demand for these commodities has meant the onset of recession in these same economies. This article explores the themes of dynamism in the China–Latin America relationship and the debates about these rapidly growing economic ties across the Pacific. It also seeks to establish a more nuanced definition of Latin America's dependence on external commodity markets in the new millennium. Three main questions are explored: (1) what gains have been made in these countries as a result of this incredible growth boom? (2) what are the policy shortcomings of this era? and, (3) what is the path forward, in terms of policy responses and further reforms, now that Chinese demand for these commodities has clearly waned?
An Application of the Multiple Streams Framework to the Analysis of the Inclusion of Solar Energy in the Energy Mix in Paraguay
Authors: Becker Pessolani Carlos Gustavo
Published: May 2016

The energy debate is growing in Latin America in a context of increasing energy demands, due to higher economic growth, but the situation in Paraguay presents contradictions, mainly deficient electric energy service and an unsustainable energy mix in a country that produces a clean‐energy surplus. In 2014, the Paraguayan Vice Ministry of Mines and Energy introduced solar energy into the mix. This article seeks to answer two questions. First, what led to the conclusion that the energy mix is unsustainable, with solar energy viewed as the solution? Second, what other solutions were positively considered but decided against and why? In answering these questions, I use the theoretical approach of the Multiple Streams Framework as an instrument to analyze the agenda‐setting and decision‐making processes. This article concludes that a sum of indicators regarding energy supply shortage and increasing demand exerted serious pressure on the government to classify the current energy mix as unsustainable, but an attempt to reorganize the energy sector by creating a new Ministry of Energy, Mines and Hydrocarbons was abandoned because of political disinterest.
Cultural Policies and Change: Mexico and Argentina after the Neoliberal Turn (1983–2012)
Authors: Bordat‐Chauvin Elodie
Published: May 2016

This article examines the changes that neoliberalism brought to the Mexican and Argentine cultural policies. Did the neoliberal turn of the 1980s and the deepening of the reforms in the 1990s have the same effects in both countries? The findings of this article show that neoliberalism had a greater effect on cultural policy in Mexico because, since the Miguel de La Madrid administration in 1982, all governments have deepened neoliberal policies. On the other hand, in Argentina, where cultural policy is less institutionalized and more dependent on politics, neoliberalism had a major influence in the 1990s but less so since 2003 and Néstor Kirchner's election.
Law of Victims and Land Restitution in Colombia: Public Debates and “Glocal” Agendas
Authors: Montoya Londoño Catalina , Vallejo Mejía Maryluz
Published: May 2016

Law 1448 of Victims and Land Restitution was ratified in Colombia in June 2011. Intergovernmental organizations, countries and nonstate actors supported the Colombian government in the design and implementation of the initiative. Drawing on a framing analysis, namely Entman and Serra's analysis of international frame projection, this article explores the dynamics of convergence and contestation between international and domestic sectors in relation to the legislation's implications for rural development and peace. The results suggest a need to understand the “glocal” flows of political communication in contexts of governance and to illustrate the contradictions emerging from the humanitarian and developmental agendas of international cooperation.
The oxidation state of nanophase Fe particles in lunar soil: Implications for space weathering
Authors: Thompson Michelle S. , Zega Thomas J. , Becerra Patricio , Keane James T. , Byrne Shane
Published: May 2016

We report measurements of the oxidation state of Fe nanoparticles within lunar soils that experienced varied degrees of space weathering. We measured >100 particles from immature, submature, and mature lunar samples using electron energy‐loss spectroscopy (EELS) coupled to an aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscope. The EELS measurements show that the nanoparticles are composed of a mixture of Fe0, Fe2+, and Fe3+ oxidation states, and exhibit a trend of increasing oxidation state with higher maturity. We hypothesize that the oxidation is driven by the diffusion of O atoms to the surface of the Fe nanoparticles from the oxygen‐rich matrix that surrounds them. The oxidation state of Fe in the nanoparticles has an effect on modeled reflectance properties of lunar soil. These results are relevant to remote sensing data for the Moon and to the remote determination of relative soil maturities for various regions of the lunar surface.
The abundance and isotopic composition of water in eucrites
Authors: Barrett T. J. , Barnes J. J. , Tartèse R. , Anand M. , Franchi I. A. , Greenwood R. C. , Charlier B. L. A. , Grady M. M.
Published: May 2016

Volatile elements play a key role in the dynamics of planetary evolution. Extensive work has been carried out to determine the abundance, distribution, and source(s) of volatiles in planetary bodies such as the Earth, Moon, and Mars. A recent study showed that the water in apatite from eucrites has similar hydrogen isotopic compositions compared to water in terrestrial rocks and carbonaceous chondrites, suggesting that water accreted very early in the inner solar system given the ancient crystallization ages (~4.5 Ga) of eucrites. Here, the measurements of water (reported as equivalent H2O abundances) and the hydrogen isotopic composition (δD) of apatite from five basaltic eucrites and one cumulate eucrite are reported. Apatite H2O abundances range from ~30 to ~3500 ppm and are associated with a weighted average δD value of −34 ± 67‰. No systematic variations or correlations are observed in H2O abundance or δD value with eucrite geochemical trend or metamorphic grade. These results extend the range of previously published hydrogen isotope data for eucrites and confirm the striking homogeneity in the H‐isotopic composition of water in eucrites, which is consistent with a common source for water in the inner solar system.
Utilizing Zebrafish to Identify Anti‐(Lymph)Angiogenic Compounds for Cancer Treatment: Promise and Future Challenges
Authors: Okuda Kazuhide S. , Lee Hui Mei , Velaithan Vithya , Ng Mei Fong , Patel Vyomesh
Published: May 2016

Cancer metastasis which predominantly occurs through blood and lymphatic vessels, is the leading cause of death in cancer patients. Consequently, several anti‐angiogenic agents have been approved as therapeutic agents for human cancers such as metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Also, anti‐lymphangiogenic drugs such as monoclonal antibodies VGX‐100 and IMC‐3C5 have undergone phase I clinical trials for advanced and metastatic solid tumors. Although anti‐tumor‐associated angiogenesis has proven to be a promising therapeutic strategy for human cancers, this approach is fraught with toxicities and development of drug resistance. This emphasizes the need for alternative anti‐(lymph)angiogenic drugs. The use of zebrafish has become accepted as an established model for high‐throughput screening, vascular biology, and cancer research. Importantly, various zebrafish transgenic lines have now been generated that can readily discriminate different vascular compartments. This now enables detailed in vivo studies that are relevant to both human physiological and tumor (lymph)angiogenesis to be conducted in zebrafish. This review highlights recent advancements in the zebrafish anti‐vascular screening platform and showcases promising new anti‐(lymph)angiogenic compounds that have been derived from this model. In addition, this review discusses the promises and challenges of the zebrafish model in the context of anti‐(lymph)angiogenic compound discovery for cancer treatment.
Rearrangements of α‐helical structures of FlgN chaperone control the binding affinity for its cognate substrates during flagellar type III export
Authors: Kinoshita Miki , Nakanishi Yuki , Furukawa Yukio , Namba Keiichi , Imada Katsumi , Minamino Tohru
Published: May 2016

The bacterial flagellar type III export chaperones not only act as bodyguards to protect their cognate substrates from aggregation and proteolysis in the cytoplasm but also ensure the order of export through their interactions with an export gate protein FlhA. FlgN chaperone binds to FlgK and FlgL with nanomolar affinity and transfers them to FlhA for their efficient and rapid transport for the formation of the hook‐filament junction zone. However, it remains unknown how FlgN releases FlgK and FlgL at the FlhA export gate platform in a timely manner. Here, we have solved the crystal structure of Salmonella FlgN at 2.3 Å resolution and carried out structure‐based functional analyses. FlgN consists of three α helices, α1, α2 and α3. Helix α1 adopts two distinct, extended and bent conformations through the conformational change of N‐loop between α1 and α2. The N‐loop deletion not only increases the probability of FlgN dimer formation but also abolish the interaction between FlgN and FlgK. Highly conserved Asn‐92, Asn‐95 and Ile‐103 residues in helix α3 are involved in the strong interaction with FlgK. We propose that the N‐loop coordinates helical rearrangements of FlgN with the association and dissociation of its cognate substrates during their export.
Isodars unveil asymmetric effects on habitat use caused by competition between two endangered species
Authors: Tarjuelo Rocío , Traba Juan , Morales Manuel B. , Morris Douglas W.
Published: May 2016

In order for competing species to coexist, segregation on some ecological niche component is required and is often mediated by differential habitat use. When unequal competitors are involved, the dominant species tends to displace the subordinate one to its less preferred habitat. Here, we use habitat isodars, an approach which reflects evolutionary stable strategies of habitat selection, to evaluate whether interspecific competition between two competing species with distinct habitat preferences, the little bustard Tetrax tetrax and the great bustard Otis tarda, modulates their habitat use. Field data on these endangered species demonstrate that unequal competitors can coexist without completely segregating on their preferred habitats. The negatively sloped isodar of the subordinate little bustard unveils its competition with the dominant great bustard. Interference from great bustards in secondary cereal habitats reinforces use of preferred natural habitat by little bustards. Studies of density‐dependent habitat selection by a single‐species can thus aid in identifying the effects of competition on community composition, and guide the conservation of at‐risk species. Isodars, in particular, represent a promising method to gain clear knowledge on interspecific competition for species in which experimental manipulations are not feasible.
Fatal pulmonary arterial hypertension in an infant girl with incontinentia pigmenti
Authors: Yasuda Kenji , Minami Noriaki , Yoshikawa Yoko , Taketani Takeshi , Fukuda Seiji , Yamaguchi Seiji
Published: May 2016

We report the case of an infant girl with incontinentia pigmenti (IP) complicated by fatal pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). She was diagnosed with IP, based on the presence of specific skin lesions, neonatal seizures, hypereosinophilia and a maternal family history of IP. At the age of 2 months, she was diagnosed with PAH on systolic heart murmur due to tricuspid valve regurgitation. Despite several treatments for PAH but not including epoprostenol, severe PAH persisted and she died of pulmonary hypertensive crisis at the age of 5 months. On postmortem histopathology the pulmonary artery had severe intimal thickening, with occlusion or stenosis of the vascular lumen of the small pulmonary arteries as well as partial plexiform lesions, all of which were compatible with PAH. Modulation of nuclear factor‐κB signaling may be involved in the development of PAH in IP.
Transient hyperphosphatasemia in three pediatric patients treated with cyclosporine
Authors: Mori Takeshi , Tanaka Ryojiro , Nishida Kosuke , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Hayakawa Akira , Nishimura Noriyuki , Nozu Kandai , Iijima Kazumoto
Published: May 2016

Transient hyperphosphatasemia (TH) is defined as marked elevation of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), predominantly its bone or liver isoform. It is a rare condition and is usually detected on laboratory examination in patients without any clinical symptoms. In typical patients with TH, ALP spontaneously normalizes, but no apparent cause of TH has been identified. Some drugs are suspected triggers of TH, but no clear evidence of their association with TH has been shown to date. We herein report three cases of TH in pediatric patients. Two patients were treated with cyclosporine for frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome, and one was also taking cyclosporine for aplastic anemia. Interestingly, ALP immediately decreased after termination of cyclosporine in two patients, whereas TH lasted 4 months in the one patient who continued cyclosporine. Clearly, cyclosporine is associated with the pathophysiology of TH in children.
Impact of omalizumab on medical cost of childhood asthma in Japan
Authors: Yoshikawa Hideki , Iwata Mihoko , Matsuzaki Hiroshi , Ono Rintaro , Murakami Yoko , Taba Naohiko , Honjo Satoshi , Motomura Chikako , Odajima Hiroshi
Published: May 2016

Omalizumab is effective in children with severe asthma, but its impact on medical cost in Japan is not clear. We evaluated the impact of omalizumab on medical cost by comparing the pre‐ vs post‐omalizumab‐initiation medical costs of 12 children with severe asthma who received omalizumab for 2 years, and calculating incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio for omalizumab therapy. Health outcome was measured as hospital‐free days (HFD). The median total medical costs and medication fee per patient increased significantly after omalizumab initiation because of the high cost of omalizumab. The median hospitalization fee per patient, however, decreased significantly after omalizumab initiation due to reduction in hospitalization. Omalizumab led to an estimated increase of 40.8 HFD per omalizumab responder patient per 2 years. The cost was JPY 20 868 per additional HFD. Omalizumab can therefore reduce hospitalization cost in children with severe asthma in Japan.
Finlay–Wilkinson's regression coefficient as a pre‐screening criterion for yield responsiveness to elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration in crops
Authors: Kumagai Etsushi , Homma Koki , Kuroda Eiki , Shimono Hiroyuki
Published: May 2016

The rising atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]) can increase crop productivity, but there are likely to be intraspecific variations in the response. To meet future world food demand, screening for genotypes with high [CO2] responsiveness will be a useful option, but there is no criterion for high [CO2] responsiveness. We hypothesized that the Finlay–Wilkinson regression coefficient (RC) (for the relationship between a genotype's yield versus the mean yield of all genotypes in a specific environment) could serve as a pre‐screening criterion for identifying genotypes that respond strongly to elevated [CO2]. We collected datasets on the yield of 6 rice and 10 soybean genotypes along environmental gradients and compared their responsiveness to elevated [CO2] based on the regression coefficients (i.e. the increases of yield per 100 µmol mol−1 [CO2]) identified in previous reports. We found significant positive correlations between the RCs and the responsiveness of yield to elevated [CO2] in both rice and soybean. This result raises the possibility that the coefficient of the Finlay–Wilkinson relationship could be used as a pre‐screening criterion for [CO2] responsiveness.
The Coevolution of Affect toward Presidents and Their Parties
Authors: Jacobson Gary C.
Published: May 2016

Previous research has shown that presidents have a powerful influence on their party's popularity, reputation for competence, perceived ideological leanings, attractiveness as an object of personal identification, and electoral fortunes. Drawing on data from multiple Gallup Polls covering presidential candidates from Eisenhower and Stevenson through George H. W. Bush; the Annenberg surveys for 2000, 2004, and 2008; the American National Election Studies (ANES) 2009‐2009 panel study; and ANES time series studies from 1978 through 2012, this article examines how the reciprocal relationship between affective reactions to presidential candidates/presidents and their parties evolves prior to and during campaigns, over presidencies, and after presidents or former candidates are no longer in office or on the ballot.
Control, Accountability, and Constraints: Rethinking Perceptions of Presidential Responsibility for the Economy
Authors: Kane John V.
Published: May 2016

The state of the national economy is known to be of fundamental consequence for presidential fortunes, which implies that citizens (1) believe presidents exert substantial control over the national economy and, consequently, (2) hold presidents accountable for economic conditions. Yet the ability of presidents to control the national economy is highly constrained. Thus, we know relatively little about how citizens come to perceive the presidency as being so responsible for economic outcomes. Using a survey experiment, this study examines whether presidential campaigns, and candidates’ claims specifically, are capable of shaping citizens’ perceptions of presidential responsibility for the economy. Paradoxically, the results reveal that the public is inclined to hold presidents accountable for the economy to a significantly greater extent than it perceives presidents to actually control the economy. Moreover, the results suggest that, by deliberately omitting information about the constraints on presidential power over the economy, candidates’ claims may play an important role in perpetuating unrealistic expectations of the president among the general public.
Evaluations of Michelle Obama as First Lady: The Role of Racial Resentment
Authors: Knuckey Jonathan , Kim Myunghee
Published: May 2016

The election of Barack Obama in 2008 was initially viewed as signaling a postracial era in American politics. However, since 2008, race and racial attitudes have appeared to pervade American political discourse and shape political attitudes and behavior to an even greater extent. Using data from the American National Election Studies, this article examines the extent to which white racial attitudes have shaped evaluations of perhaps the most visible African American in politics today after the president: the First Lady, Michelle Obama. Findings show that racial resentment played a large role in evaluations of Michelle Obama, even after controlling for other explanatory variables, which include partisanship, ideology, and affect toward Barack Obama.
The Contemporary Presidency: Judicial Restraint and the New War Powers
Authors: Farrier Jasmine
Published: May 2016

Over the past four decades, members of Congress have filed 10 lawsuits challenging military actions abroad that were ordered or sustained by presidents without prior legislative consent. In dismissing these cases, federal courts told the plaintiffs to use their legislative tools to show disapproval of the actions already in progress. Under this logic, the House and Senate must have a veto‐proof supermajority to end an existing military engagement before a case can be heard on the merits. These precedents contrast with previous war powers cases initiated by private litigants, which focused on prior simple majority legislative authority for presidential action.
The pupil's response to affective pictures: Role of image duration, habituation, and viewing mode
Authors: Snowden Robert J. , O'Farrell Katherine R. , Burley Daniel , Erichsen Jonathan T. , Newton Naomi V. , Gray Nicola S.
Published: May 2016

The pupil has been shown to be sensitive to the emotional content of stimuli. We examined this phenomenon by comparing fearful and neutral images carefully matched in the domains of luminance, image contrast, image color, and complexity of content. The pupil was more dilated after viewing affective pictures, and this effect was (a) shown to be independent of the presentation time of the images (from 100–3,000 ms), (b) not diminished by repeated presentations of the images, and (c) not affected by actively naming the emotion of the stimuli in comparison to passive viewing. Our results show that the emotional modulation of the pupil is present over a range of variables that typically vary from study to study (image duration, number of trials, free viewing vs. task), and encourages the use of pupillometry as a measure of emotional processing in populations where alternative techniques may not be appropriate.
Alone against the group: A unanimously disagreeing group leads to conformity, but cardiovascular threat depends on one's goals
Authors: Seery Mark D. , Gabriel Shira , Lupien Shannon P. , Shimizu Mitsuru
Published: May 2016

A long history of research in psychology has studied the consequences of when individuals face a group that unanimously disagrees with them. However, relatively little research has attempted to understand individuals’ internal reactions to such disagreement while it is experienced. Psychophysiological measures are particularly well suited for this purpose. We used the perspective of the biopsychosocial model of challenge/threat to test whether and under what circumstances expressing one's political opinion to a disagreeing group led to a cardiovascular threat response (high total peripheral resistance, low cardiac output). We hypothesized that, when participants were provided with a goal to fit in with the group, a disagreeing group would elicit cardiovascular responses consistent with greater threat than an agreeing group, but that this effect would disappear if not reverse when participants were provided with a goal to express their individuality. Results supported hypotheses and further revealed a divergence between cardiovascular responses and conformity behavior, such that a disagreeing group fostered conformity regardless of goal condition. These findings suggest that (a) facing the prospect of a disagreeing group need not necessarily result in the negative experience of threat (reflecting evaluating low resources/high demands), and (b) conformity behavior can mask a range of internal states.
Linkages between unpaved forest roads and streambed sediment: why context matters in directing road restoration
Authors: Al‐Chokhachy Robert , Black Tom A. , Thomas Cameron , Luce Charles H. , Rieman Bruce , Cissel Richard , Carlson Anne , Hendrickson Shane , Archer Eric K. , Kershner Jeff L.
Published: May 2016

Unpaved forest roads remain a pervasive disturbance on public lands and mitigating sediment from road networks remains a priority for management agencies. Restoring roaded landscapes is becoming increasingly important for many native coldwater fishes that disproportionately rely on public lands for persistence. However, effectively targeting restoration opportunities requires a comprehensive understanding of the effects of roads across different ecosystems. Here, we combine a review and a field study to evaluate the status of knowledge supporting the conceptual framework linking unpaved forest roads with streambed sediment. Through our review, we specifically focused on those studies linking measures of the density of forest roads or sediment delivery with empirical streambed sediment measures. Our field study provides an example of a targeted effort of linking spatially explicit estimates of sediment production with measures of streambed sediment. Surprisingly, our review uncovered few studies (n= 8) that empirically tested the conceptual framework linking unpaved forest roads and streambed sediment, and the results varied considerably. Field results generally supported the conceptual model that unpaved forest roads can control streambed sediment quality, but demonstrated high‐spatial variability in the effects of forest roads on streambed sediment and the need to address hotspots of sediment sources. The importance of context in the effects of forest roads is apparent in both our review and field data, suggesting the need for in situ studies to avoid misdirected restoration actions.
Dual role of the CXCL12 polymorphism in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Butrym A. , Gebura K. , Iwaszko M. , Kuliczkowski K. , Bogunia‐Kubik K. , Mazur G.
Published: May 2016

The CXCL12 [chemokine (C–X–C motif) ligand 12] is a member of the CXC family of chemokines and interacts with its CXCR4 receptor. The CXCL12/CXCR4 axis is involved in regulation of proliferation, survival and trafficking of hematopoietic stem cells, including B lymphocytes and disruption within this signaling pathway has been implicated in pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). The aim of this study was to determine a potential association of the CXCL12 rs1801157 G > A polymorphism with susceptibility to CLL, the disease course and efficacy of therapy. Also, expression of the CD74 and CD38 proteins on B cells was analyzed in relation to clinical parameters and genotyping results. A total of 124 patients with CLL and 75 healthy controls were studied. CXCL12 genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction ‐ restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) method. The CD74 and CD38 surface expression was determined using flow cytometry. There was a significantly increased frequency of the A allele and AA genotype in CLL patients compared with control group (P < 0.001 in both cases). In addition, the A allele was overrepresented among patients with worse response to therapy in comparison to other genotypes (P < 0.001). On the contrary, patients carrying the A allele displayed lower grade of the disease at diagnosis more frequently than patients homozygous for the G allele (P = 0.037). Moreover, the AA homozygosity correlated with lower CD74 expression on B cells (P = 0.007). In conclusion, data from this study indicate that the CXCL12 rs1801157 G > A polymorphism may affect CLL development, disease progression as well as response to treatment.