bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Randomized controlled trial of electro‐stimulation therapies to modulate retinal blood flow and visual function in retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Bittner Ava K. , Seger Kenneth , Salveson Rachel , Kayser Samantha , Morrison Natalia , Vargas Patricia , Mendelsohn Deborah , Han Jorge , Bi Hua , Dagnelie Gislin , Benavente Alexandra , Ramella‐Roman Jessica
Published: November 2017

Purpose

We examined changes in visual function and ocular and retinal blood flow (RBF) among retinitis pigmentosa (RP) participants in a randomized controlled trial of electro‐stimulation therapies.

Methods

Twenty‐one RP participants were randomized (1:1:1) to transcorneal electrical stimulation (TES) at 6 weekly half‐hour sessions, electro‐acupuncture or inactive laser acupuncture (sham control) at 10 half‐hour sessions over 2 weeks. Early Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) visual acuity (VA), quick contrast sensitivity function, Goldmann visual fields, AdaptDx scotopic sensitivity, spectral flow and colour Doppler imaging of the central retinal artery (CRA), and RBF in macular capillaries were measured twice pre‐treatment, after 2 TES sessions, within a week and a month after intervention completion.

Results

We measured a significant improvement in retrobulbar CRA mean flow velocity for both the TES (p = 0.038) and electro‐acupuncture groups (p = 0.001) on average after 2 weeks of treatment when compared to sham controls. Transcorneal electrical simulation (TES) and electro‐acupuncture subjects had significant 55% and 34% greater increases, respectively, in RBF in the macular vessels when compared to sham controls (p < 0.001; p = 0.008) within a week of completing six TES sessions or a month after electro‐acupuncture. There was a significant difference in the proportion of eyes that had improved visual function when comparing the three intervention groups (p = 0.038): four of seven TES subjects (57%), two of seven electro‐acupuncture subjects (29%) and none of the seven control subjects (0%) had a significant visual improvement outside of typical test–retest variability at two consecutive post‐treatment visits.

Conclusion

Increased blood flow following electro‐stimulation therapies is an objective, physiological change that occurred in addition to visual function improvements in some RP patients.
Renal haemodynamics and oxygenation during and after cardiac surgery and cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Evans R. G. , Lankadeva Y. R. , Cochrane A. D. , Marino B. , Iguchi N. , Zhu M. Z. L. , Hood S. G. , Smith J. A. , Bellomo R. , Gardiner B. S. , Lee C.‐J. , Smith D. W. , May C. N.
Published: November 2017

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication following cardiac surgery performed on cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) and has important implications for prognosis. The aetiology of cardiac surgery‐associated AKI is complex, but renal hypoxia, particularly in the medulla, is thought to play at least some role. There is strong evidence from studies in experimental animals, clinical observations and computational models that medullary ischaemia and hypoxia occur during CPB. There are no validated methods to monitor or improve renal oxygenation during CPB, and thus possibly decrease the risk of AKI. Attempts to reduce the incidence of AKI by early transfusion to ameliorate intra‐operative anaemia, refinement of protocols for cooling and rewarming on bypass, optimization of pump flow and arterial pressure, or the use of pulsatile flow, have not been successful to date. This may in part reflect the complexity of renal oxygenation, which may limit the effectiveness of individual interventions. We propose a multi‐disciplinary pathway for translation comprising three components. Firstly, large‐animal models of CPB to continuously monitor both whole kidney and regional kidney perfusion and oxygenation. Secondly, computational models to obtain information that can be used to interpret the data and develop rational interventions. Thirdly, clinically feasible non‐invasive methods to continuously monitor renal oxygenation in the operating theatre and to identify patients at risk of AKI. In this review, we outline the recent progress on each of these fronts.
Towards functional selectivity for α6β3γ2 GABAA receptors: a series of novel pyrazoloquinolinones
Authors: Treven Marco , Siebert David C B , Holzinger Raphael , Bampali Konstantina , Fabjan Jure , Varagic Zdravko , Wimmer Laurin , Steudle Friederike , Scholze Petra , Schnürch Michael , Mihovilovic Marko D , Ernst Margot
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose

The GABAA receptors are ligand‐gated ion channels, which play an important role in neurotransmission. Their variety of binding sites serves as an appealing target for many clinically relevant drugs. Here, we explored the functional selectivity of modulatory effects at specific extracellular α+/β− interfaces, using a systematically varied series of pyrazoloquinolinones.

Experimental Approach

Recombinant GABAA receptors were expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes and modulatory effects on GABA‐elicited currents by the newly synthesized and reference compounds were investigated by the two‐electrode voltage clamp method.

Key Results

We identified a new compound which, to the best of our knowledge, shows the highest functional selectivity for positive modulation at α6β3γ2 GABAA receptors with nearly no residual activity at the other αxβ3γ2 (x = 1–5) subtypes. This modulation was independent of affinity for α+/γ− interfaces. Furthermore, we demonstrated for the first time a compound that elicits a negative modulation at specific extracellular α+/β− interfaces.

Conclusion and Implications

These results constitute a major step towards a potential selective positive modulation of certain α6‐containing GABAA receptors, which might be useful to elicit their physiological role. Furthermore, these studies pave the way towards insights into molecular principles that drive positive versus negative allosteric modulation of specific GABAA receptor isoforms.
RTP801 is a critical factor in the neurodegeneration process of A53T α‐synuclein in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease under chronic restraint stress
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Chu Shi‐Feng , Wang Sha‐Sha , Jiang Yi‐Na , Gao Yan , Yang Peng‐Fei , Ai Qi‐Di , Chen Nai‐Hong
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose

Recently, the incidence of Parkinson's disease has shown a tendency to move to a younger population, linked to the constantly increasing stressors of modern society. However, this relationship remains obscure. Here, we have investigated the contribution of stress and the mechanisms underlying this change.

Experimental Approach

Ten‐month‐old α‐synuclein A53T mice, a model of Parkinson's disease (PD), were treated with chronic restraint stress (CRS) to simulate a PD‐sensitive person with constant stress stimulation. PD‐like behavioural tests and pathological changes were evaluated. Differentiated PC12‐A53T cells were treated with corticosterone in vitro. We used Western blot, microRNA expression analysis, immunofluorescence staining, dual luciferase reporter assay and HPLC electrochemical detection to assess cellular and molecular networks after stress treatment. In vivo, stereotaxic injection of shRNA lentivirus was used to confirm our in vitro results.

Key Results

The protein RTP801 is encoded by DNA‐damage‐inducible transcript 4, and it was specifically increased in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra after CRS treatment. RTP801 was post‐transcriptionally inhibited by the down‐regulation of miR‐7. Delayed turnover of RTP801, through the inhibition of proteasome degradation also contributed to its high content. Elevated RTP801 blocked autophagy, thus increasing accumulation of oligomeric α‐synuclein and aggravating endoplasmic reticulum stress. RTP801 inhibition alleviated the symptoms of neurodegeneration during this process.

Conclusions and Implications

RTP801 is a promising target for the treatment of PD, especially for PD‐sensitive patients who live under increased social pressure. Down‐regulation of RTP801 could inhibit the current tendency to an earlier onset of PD.
Naphthoquinones: A continuing source for discovery of therapeutic antineoplastic agents
Authors: Qiu Han‐Yue , Wang Peng‐Fei , Lin Hong‐Yan , Tang Cheng‐Yi , Zhu Hai‐Liang , Yang Yong‐Hua
Published: November 2017

Naturally occurring naphthoquinones, usually in forms of botanical extracts, have been implicated with human life since ancient time, far earlier than their isolation and identification in modern era. The long use history of naphthoquinones has witnessed their functional shift from the original purposes as dyes and ornaments toward medicinal benefits. Hitherto, numerous studies have been carried out to elucidate the pharmacological profile of both natural and artificial naphthoquinones. A number of entities have been identified with promising therapeutic potential. Apart from the traditional effects of wound healing, anti‐inflammatory, hemostatic, antifertility, insecticidal and antimicrobial,etc., the anticancer potential of naphthoquinones either in combination with other treatment approaches or on their own is being more and more realized. The molecular mechanisms of naphthoquinones in cells mainly fall into two categories as inducing oxidant stress byROS(reactive oxygen species) generation and directly interacting with traditional therapeutic targets in a non‐oxidant mechanism. Based on this knowledge, optimized agents with naphthoquinones scaffold have been acquired and further tested. Hereby, we summarize the explored biological mechanisms of naphthoquinones in cells and review the application perspective of promising naphthoquinones in cancer therapies.
A structure‐based strategy toward the development of novel candidates for antimycobacterial activity: Synthesis, biological evaluation, and docking study
Authors: Li Linhu , Jin Yuanyuan , Wang Bin , Yang Zhaoyong , Liu Mingliang , Guo Huiyuan , Zhang Jun , Lu Yu
Published: November 2017

Bacterial resistance to most of the available antibiotics has stimulated the discovery of novel efficacious antibacterial agents. Bedaquiline is first of its type that has been specifically introduced for the management of MDR‐TB in combination with other drugs. In this study, a series of isoniazid/ethambutol/pyrazinamide/‐quinoline conjugates based on the structures of bedaquiline were designed and synthesized. Biological activity tests revealed that some of isoniazid/ethambutol/quinoline conjugates have useful antibiotic activity against MTB H37Rv (MIC: 2.0–8.0 μg/ml). Furthermore, molecular docking calculations were performed for the most potent inhibitor to show its binding interactions within the active site of the possible target protein. Overall, these compounds represent novel valuable starting point with potent antimycobacterial activity and deserve further structural modifications.
Comparative evaluation of 68Ga‐labeled NODAGA, DOTAGA, and HBED‐CC‐conjugated cNGR peptide chelates as tumor‐targeted molecular imaging probes
Authors: Satpati Drishty , Sharma Rohit , Sarma Haladhar Dev , Dash Ashutosh
Published: November 2017

The biological behavior of 68Ga‐based radiopharmaceuticals can be significantly affected by the chelators’ attributes (size, charge, lipophilicity). Thus, this study aimed at examining the influence of three different chelators, DOTAGA, NODAGA, and HBED‐CC on the distribution pattern of 68Ga‐labeled NGR peptides targeting CD13 receptors. 68Ga‐DOTAGA‐c(NGR), 68Ga‐NODAGA‐c(NGR), and 68Ga‐HBED‐CC‐c(NGR) were observed to be hydrophilic with respective log p values being −3.5 ± 0.2, −3.3 ± 0.08, and −2.8 ± 0.14. The three radiotracers exhibited nearly similar uptake in human fibrosarcoma HT‐1080 tumor cells with 86%, 63%, and 33% reduction during blocking studies with unlabeled cNGR peptide for 68Ga‐DOTAGA‐c(NGR), 68Ga‐NODAGA‐c(NGR), and 68Ga‐HBED‐CC‐c(NGR), respectively, indicating higher receptor specificity of the first two radiotracers. The neutral radiotracer 68Ga‐NODAGA‐c(NGR) demonstrated better target‐to‐non‐target ratios during in vivo studies compared to its negatively charged counterparts, 68Ga‐DOTAGA‐c(NGR) and 68Ga‐HBED‐CC‐c(NGR). The three radiotracers had similar HT‐1080 tumor uptake and being hydrophilic exhibited renal excretion with minimal uptake in non‐target organs. Significant reduction (p < .005) in HT‐1080 tumor uptake of the radiotracers was observed during blocking studies. It may be inferred from these studies that the three radiotracers are promising probes for in vivo imaging of CD13 receptor expressing cancer sites; however, 68Ga‐NODAGA‐c(NGR) is a better candidate.
Ginsenoside Rb1 improves leptin sensitivity in the prefrontal cortex in obese mice
Authors: Wu Yizhen , Huang Xu‐Feng , Bell Christopher , Yu Yinghua
Published: November 2017

Aim

Obesity impairs leptin‐induced regulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and synaptogenesis, which has been considered to be associated with the incidence of neuronal degenerative diseases, cognitive decline, and depression. Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1), a major bioactive component of ginseng, is known to have an antiobesity effect and improve cognition. This study examined whether Rb1 can improve central leptin effects on BDNF expression and synaptogenesis in the prefrontal cortex during obesity using an in vivo and an in vitro model.

Result

Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) chronic treatment improved central leptin sensitivity, leptin‐JAK2‐STAT3 signaling, and leptin‐induced regulation of BDNF expression in the prefrontal cortex of high‐fat diet‐induced obese mice. In cultured prefrontal cortical neurons, palmitic acid, the saturated fat, impaired leptin‐induced BDNF expression, reduced the immunoreactivity and mRNA expression of synaptic proteins, and impaired leptin‐induced neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis. Importantly, Rb1 significantly prevented these pernicious effects induced by palmitic acid.

Conclusion

These results indicate that Rb1 reverses central leptin resistance and improves leptin‐BDNF‐neurite outgrowth and synaptogenesis in the prefrontal cortical neurons. Thus, Rb1 supplementation may be a beneficial avenue to treat obesity‐associated neurodegenerative disorders.
Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 quality‐of‐life patterns in patients presenting with nasal septal perforation
Authors: Leong S.C. , Webb C.J.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To assess the impact of nasal septal perforation (NSP) on quality of life.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Rhinology clinics from two hospitals in Liverpool, United Kingdom.

Participants

Patients diagnosed with NSP.

Main outcome measures

Patients (n = 26) diagnosed with NSP completed the Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test‐22 (SNOT‐22). The collated data were compared with SNOT‐22 scores from a cohort of healthy volunteers (n = 34) and a cohort of patients (n = 30) diagnosed with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS).

Results

The mean total SNOT‐22 score of NSP and CRS cohorts was higher than that observed in healthy volunteers. The mean total SNOT‐22 score in the CRS cohort (57.2, standard deviation SD 10.3) was the higher than NSP (50.2, SD 23.5), although this difference did not achieve statistical significance. The mean score for the rhinologic‐specific domains (rhinologic symptoms, extranasal rhinologic symptoms), ear/facial symptoms and psychological dysfunction domain was higher in the CRS cohort compared to NSP, although statistical significance was only observed in the extranasal rhinologic symptoms domain (11.2, SD 2.4 vs 6.4, SD 4.1). Conversely, the mean sleep dysfunction domain score for NSP (12.7, SD 7.5) was higher than CRS (10.0, SD 4.9, respectively) although this was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

This study has assessed the clinimetric and psychometric properties of patients suffering from symptomatic NSP. Future reports should consider inclusion of SNOT‐22 data but with the addition of perforation‐specific symptoms (nasal crusting, epistaxis, whistling noise).
Tips for endoscopic stone extraction using new short‐type double balloon endoscope for common bile duct stones in patients with surgically altered gastrointestinal anatomy
Authors: Shimatani Masaaki , Takaoka Makoto , Okazaki Kazuichi
Published: November 2017

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Terror or Terrorism? The “Islamic State” Between State and Nonstate Violence
Authors: Müller Miriam
Published: November 2017

As a non‐state actor that claims its own territory, the “Islamic State” utilizes a spectrum of very different kinds of coercion and violence. Considering the group's aspirations to govern the territories controlled by it, any clear distinction between uses of force and coercion that states typically claim as their legitimate right, and implement terrorist non‐state violence, tends to blur right before our analytically‐focused eyes. This contribution discusses how the group challenges the distinction between “terror from above” and “terrorism from below” as well as the meaning of the dual character of Daesh's belief system between the ideological and the religious for Daesh's repertoire of violence.
URBAN TRANSPORTATION MODE CHOICE AND TRIP COMPLEXITY: BICYCLISTS STICK TO THEIR GEARS
Authors: Wyer Joseph F.
Published: November 2017

Commuters' lives have become more complicated with rising income. In my model, transportation mode choices are made simultaneously with the choice of whether to make multiple stops. Using travel behavior data, I estimate the model using an error components logit (ECL) specification to account for commuters' unobserved preferences for particular modes and find that omitting unobserved preferences underestimates value of travel time relative to the crossing‐components ECL. The estimated model predicts that increased trip complexity causes substitution away from public transit to automobiles, with the exception that bicyclists transition only to more complex trips and do not change transportation modes. (JEL R41, C25)
Niche divergence of two closely related Carbula species (Insecta: Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) despite the presence of a hybrid zone
Authors: LIU HUAXI , YE ZHEN , LIANG JINGYU , WANG SHUJING , BU WENJUN
Published: November 2017

1. The extent to which ecologically divergent selection acts to maintain species boundaries in the presence of hybridisation and gene flow is not well understood. Two parapatric taxa, Carbula humerigera (Uhler) and Carbula putoni (Jakovlev), were used to test the extent to which niche differentiation might sustain divergence of related taxa despite ongoing gene flow.

2. Mitochondrial [cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI), cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COII) and cytochrome b (Cytb)] and nuclear [elongation factor 1‐alpha (EF‐1α)] markers were sequenced from 383 individuals. Clusters of morphological variations were estimated and visualised using principal component analysis (PCA). Haplotype networks were constructed using median‐joining and neighbour‐net algorithm methods. Gene flows were estimated using migrate‐n analyses. Suitable habitats for each species and their sympatric distribution were predicted with ecological niche modelling (ENM). Niche comparisons were conducted using Schoener's D and Warren's I. In addition, PCA, multivariate analysis of variance (manova) and discriminant function analysis were used to test ecological differentiation.

3. Morphological clusters and network analysis indicated that samples were generally divided into three groups (C. humerigera, C. putoni and hybrids). Ongoing gene flow was detected among the three groups, with abundant magnitudes in the sympatric region. Niche comparison and statistical analysis showed ecological differentiation between C. humerigera and C. putoni. Two potential hybrid zones were predicted in the ENM reconstruction, located along the Yanshan‐Taihang‐Qinling and Taishan mountains.

4. These results reveal a geographically delineated hybrid zone between C. humerigera and C. putoni. These two closely related Carbula species still live in different ecological niches despite hybridisation and ongoing gene flow.
Effect of non‐thermal atmospheric plasma on the dentin‐surface topography and composition and on the bond strength of a universal adhesive
Authors: Ayres Ana P. , Bonvent Jean J. , Mogilevych Borys , Soares Luis E. S. , Martin Airton A. , Ambrosano Glaucia M. , Nascimento Fábio D. , Van Meerbeek Bart , Giannini Marcelo
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the effect of application of non‐thermal atmospheric plasma (NTAP) on the topography and composition of the dentin surface, as well as the microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of a universal adhesive to NTAP‐treated dentin. Exposed flat dentin surfaces from human third molars were either treated with NTAP for 10 and 30 s or untreated (control). The dentin‐surface topography and chemical composition were characterized by atomic force microscopy (n = 3) and Raman confocal spectroscopy (n = 5), respectively. The μTBS (n = 8) of Scotchbond Universal to dentin was determined after storage for 24 h and 1 yr, either by direct water exposure or under simulated pulpal pressure. In‐situ zymography was used to evaluate the influence of NTAP on the dentin‐enzymatic activity. Non‐thermal atmospheric plasma produced no remarkable topographical or chemical alterations at the dentin surface; only the amount of phosphate decreased following 10 s of treatment with NTAP. After 1 yr of direct water exposure, the μTBS of NTAP‐treated specimens did not differ statistically significantly from that of untreated controls, whereas simulated pulpal pressure‐aging resulted in a significantly higher μTBS for NTAP‐treated dentin. The dentin‐enzymatic activity appeared to be treatment‐dependent, but the untreated controls showed more intense fluorescence within the hybrid layer. Scotchbond Universal maintained its μTBS strength after 1 yr of direct water exposure and simulated pulpal pressure, although remarkable statistical differences between treatments were observed depending on the aging condition.
Oral health‐related quality of life, measured using the five‐item version of the Oral Health Impact Profile, in relation to socio‐economic status: a population survey in Sweden
Authors: Wide Ulla , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: November 2017

Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) is an important patient‐reported outcome measure in dental research. This study was conducted to analyse the association between OHRQoL, as measured using the five‐item version of the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐5), and different socio‐economic indices. A national survey of randomly selected adult individuals in Sweden (n = 3,500) was performed using telephone interviews. The questions asked for the purpose of this study were defined by the items of the OHIP‐5, just as questions were asked regarding socio‐economic variables, including education, income, and economic resources. Poor OHRQoL, as identified by an OHIP‐5 score of 3 or higher on at least two of the five items, was statistically significantly associated in multivariate analysis with low income (OR = 1.84) and having no economic resources (OR = 2.19). The statistical models were adjusted for age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, dental‐care utilization, dental anxiety, and smoking. The OHIP‐5 may be used in larger epidemiological surveys because it demonstrates the ability to discriminate for a range of important areas of measurement in dental public health, including social determinants.
Adult survival and reproductive rate are linked to habitat preference in territorial, year‐round resident Song SparrowsMelospiza melodia
Authors: Germain Ryan R. , Schuster Richard , Tarwater Corey E. , Hochachka Wesley M. , Arcese Peter
Published: November 2017

Individual animal fitness can be strongly influenced by the ability to recognize habitat features which may be beneficial. Many studies focus on the effects of habitat on annual reproductive rate, even though adult survival is typically a greater influence on fitness and population growth in vertebrate species with intermediate to long lifespans. Understanding the effects of preferred habitat on individuals over the annual cycle is therefore necessary to predict its influences on individual fitness. This is particularly true in species that are resident and territorial year‐round in the temperate zone, which may face potential trade‐offs between habitat that maximizes reproduction and that which maximizes non‐breeding season (‘over‐winter’) survival. We used a 37‐year study of Song SparrowsMelospiza melodiaresiding territorially year‐round on a small island to examine what habitat features influenced adult over‐winter survival, how site‐specific variation in adult survival vs. annual reproductive rate influenced long‐term habitat preference, and if preferred sites on average conferred higher individual fitness. Habitat features such as area of shrub cover and exposure to intertidal coastline predicted adult over‐winter survival independent of individual age or sex, population size, or winter weather. Long‐term habitat preference (measured as occupation rate) was better predicted by site‐specific annual reproductive rate than by expected over‐winter survival, but preferred sites maximized fitness on average over the entire annual cycle,. Although adult over‐winter survival had a greater influence on population growth (λ) than did reproductive rate, the influence of reproductive rate onλincreased in preferred sites because site‐specific variation in reproductive rate was higher than variation in expected over‐winter survival. Because preferred habitats tended to have higher mean site‐specific reproductive and adult survival rates, territorial birds in this population do not appear to experience seasonal trade‐offs in preferred habitat but are predicted to incur substantial fitness costs of settling in less‐preferred sites.
Antidesmoglein 1 and 3 antibodies in healthy subjects of a population in the Peruvian high amazon
Authors: Ramos Willy , Díaz Jesús , Gutierrez Ericson L. , Lazarte Jose S. , Bohnett Mary C. , Ronceros Gerardo , Ortega‐Loayza Alex G.
Published: November 2017

Background

The objective of this study was to determine the presence of anti‐Dsg1 and Dsg3 antibodies in healthy subjects of the high Peruvian Amazon (Tuemal, Rodriguez de Mendoza province, department of Amazonas) to establish the theoretical presence of environmental factors or triggers in the area.

Materials and methods

Cross‐sectional study. The study population included persons of any age or gender, clinically healthy, who were evaluated by a dermatologist to confirm the absence of blistering diseases. Blood samples were analyzed by indirect immunofluorescence (IIF), immunoprecipitation (IP), anti‐Dsg1 IgM antibody (Ab) enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), as well as anti‐Dsg1 and anti‐Dsg3 IgG Ab ELISA.

Results

Participants included 21 healthy subjects comprised of 61.9% males and 38.1% females; 47.6% had a positive anti‐Dsg1 Ab ELISA for total IgG (or any subclasses). IIF detected antibodies against intercellular spaces in one subject. Anti‐Dsg1 Ab IP was mildly positive in 33.3% of the subjects. Anti‐Dsg1 IgG subclasses found positive were: IgG1 (19.0%), IgG2 (33.3%), and IgG3 (28.6%); none of the samples were positive for anti‐Dsg1 Ab IgM ELISA, and 23.8% of the subjects were positive for anti‐Dsg3 Ab ELISA. The age distribution was similar for subjects positive for anti‐Dsg1 and anti‐Dsg3 Ab ELISA, with higher frequencies found among the 20–29 and 40–49 year‐old age groups.

Conclusion

A fraction of healthy subjects of the high Peruvian Amazon developed anti‐Dsg1 and anti‐Dsg3 antibodies, demonstrating the possible presence of environmental factors for endemic pemphigus (EP) at a higher altitude than previously described.
Active edible coatings with Boldo extract added and their application on nut products: reducing the oxidative rancidity rate
Authors: Bonilla Jeannine , Poloni Talita , Sobral Paulo J. A.
Published: November 2017

Brazil and Cashew nuts were coated with pure (gelatin, chitosan, sodium caseinate) or blended (gelatin:chitosan, gelatin:sodium caseinate) coating solutions, with and without Boldo‐of‐Chile extract. Brazil nuts exhibited lower moisture content (1.6%) and higher fat content (56.5%) when compared to Cashew nuts (4.7% and 45.5%, respectively). Similar content (≈37.0%) of oleic and linoleic fatty acids was displayed by Brazil nuts, in contrast to Cashew nuts, which showed 64.9% of oleic and 17.5% of linoleic fatty acids. Sodium caseinate solution displayed higher instability index, which was significantly reduced when using gelatin. Coating thickness (20 μm) of the nuts was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy analysis. A lower transmission rate of oxygen was observed in blended films with Boldo extract. Lastly, due to the oxygen barrier effect and the addition of Boldo extract, the coatings protected Brazil and Cashew nuts against oxidation, when compared with the unprotected samples, during 120 days of storage.
The effect of high solid concentrations on enzymatic hydrolysis of soya bean protein isolate and antioxidant activity of the resulting hydrolysates
Authors: Chen Jiahui , Cui Chun , Zhao Haifeng , Wang Haiping , Zhao Mouming , Wang Wei , Dong Keming
Published: November 2017

This study investigated the effect of high solid concentrations on the enzymatic hydrolysis and antioxidant activities of soya bean protein isolate hydrolysates (SPIHs). The soya bean protein isolate at the concentration of 8%, 16%, 24% and 32% was hydrolysed to obtain SPIH with 21.5% degree of hydrolysis (DH), respectively. Results showed that, for the same DH, significant increases in reaction time and decrease in protein recovery were observed as solid concentrations increased. There was no significant difference in molecular weight distribution, but different amino acid compositions in supernatants of SPIH hydrolysed at different solid concentrations. The level of antioxidant amino acids in high solid concentration (32%) was higher than that in low solid concentration group, and antioxidant activity of SPIH increased with the solid concentration increased. Thus, increasing solid concentrations could increase the antioxidant activities and functional properties with low water costs.
Regional climate oscillations and local topography shape genetic polymorphisms and distribution of the giant columnar cactus Echinopsis terscheckii in drylands of the tropical Andes
Authors: Quipildor Vilma B. , Kitzberger Thomas , Ortega‐Baes Pablo , Quiroga Maria P. , Premoli Andrea C.
Published: November 2017

Aim

We sought to determine if the present fragmentary distribution of the giant columnar cactus Echinopsis terscheckii in tropical drylands is a relict of a previously more widespread range during cold and dry phases of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM).

Location

Tropical and subtropical dry ecotonal areas of northern and central Andes of Argentina.

Methods

We combined ecological niche models (ENM) with molecular polymorphisms of isozymes and DNA sequences. We collected samples from 30 individuals at 24 locations for genetic analysis covering a wide range of environmental conditions. We sequenced the nuclear ITS and three non‐coding regions of the chloroplast DNA and we resolved 15 isozyme loci. Potential distribution was modelled using 88 E. terscheckii presence training records and a reduced set of 10 modern bioclimatic variables. LGM and the Mid‐Holocene distributions were derived by projecting bioclimatic data under present to past environmental conditions according to CCSM4 and MIROC‐ESM Global Climate Models.

Results

We detected high isozyme diversity towards the south. The multivariate cluster analysis yielded two groups of populations that were geographically concordant with the DNA haplotypes located north and south of a divide at 27°S. Distribution models show range expansion during the LGM in two north and south areas separated by a gap of low suitability at 27°S. Suitable areas in the south were close to current populations, while in the north, populations survived in more disjunct locations that probably suffered from founder effects. In contrast, Mid‐Holocene bioclimatic conditions were relatively unsuitable in the south.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that the divergence of north and south groups of E. terscheckii populations reflect long‐lasting persistence through climatic cycles that were reinforced by the presence of an orogenic divide at mid‐latitudes. Latitudinally divergent groups of populations should be treated as distinct evolutionary significant units that deserve independent conservation actions. Increased genetic diversity and inbreeding towards the south may guide setting up priorities for the long‐term protection of a dominant element of drylands as E. terscheckii.
Reply to: Systolic Blood Pressure and Mortality: Role of Reverse Causation
Authors: Wu Chenkai , Peralta Carmen A. , Odden Michelle C.
Published: November 2017

This letter comments on the Letter by Supiano et al.
Transcranial Doppler and Lower Extremity Function in Older Adults: Einstein Aging Study
Authors: Ezzati Ali , Rundek Tatjana , Verghese Joe , Derby Carol A.
Published: November 2017

Objectives

To determine whether transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) measures of mean blood flow velocity (MBFV) in the major cerebral arteries are associated with measures of lower extremity function in community‐dwelling older adults.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Community sample.

Participants

Individuals aged 70 and older (mean 79.5, 54% female) without dementia participating in the Einstein Aging Study (N = 200).

Measurements

All participants underwent TCD assessments and tests of lower extremity function at an annual clinic visit. Average MBFV for anterior (left and right anterior and middle cerebral arteries (MCAs)) and posterior (vertebral (VA) and basilar (BA) artery) circulation was measured using a standardized TCD protocol. Lower extremity function was characterized according to gait speed (cm/s) measured using an instrumented walkway, balance according to unipedal stance time (UPST, seconds), and lower extremity strength according to timed repeated chair rise (seconds).

Results

Multiple regression models adjusted for age, sex, race, education, and medical comorbidities showed that lower MBFV in the MCA was associated with slower gait speed and chair rise time but not with UPST. Ordinal regression models showed that lower MBFV in the VA and BA is associated with shorter UPST.

Conclusion

Low MBFV in the anterior and posterior cerebral circulation was associated with worse lower extremity function and balance in older adults. This might be indicative of the importance of age‐related changes in cerebral hemodynamics in the function of brain regions involved in specific aspects of physical performance.
Chylomicronemia risk factors ranked by importance for the individual and community in 108 711 women and men
Authors: Pedersen S. B. , Varbo A. , Langsted A. , Nordestgaard B. G.
Published: November 2017

Background

Hypertriglyceridemia prevalence is increasing as more individuals become obese, and chylomicronemia risk factors for the individual and community have not been described previously.

Objective

To describe chylomicronemia risk factors in the general population for individuals and community.

Methods

A total of 108 711 individuals from the Copenhagen General Population Study were grouped as unlikely chylomicronemia (nonfasting triglycerides <2 mmol L−1 (177 mg dL−1)), possible chylomicronemia (2–4.99 mmol L−1 (177–442 mg dL−1)), probable chylomicronemia (5–9.99 mmol L−1 (443–885 mg dL−1)) and definite chylomicronemia (≥10 mmol L−1 (≥ 886 mg dL−1)). Relative risk (RR) from Poisson regression ranked dichotomized chylomicronemia risk factors for individuals, and population attributable fractions (PAF) for the community: type 2 diabetes, alcohol intake, obesity, fat intake, hypothyroidism, kidney function, education, sedentary lifestyle, menopause and hormone replacement (women).

Results

For women and men, chylomicronemia was unlikely in 81% and 64%, possible in 18% and 33%, probable in 1% and 3% and definite in 0.03% and 0.14%, respectively. For the individual, the three top‐ranked risk factors for probable/definite versus unlikely chylomicronemia in women were type 2 diabetes (RR: 4.21; 95% confidence interval: 3.30–5.36), menopause (RR: 3.74; 2.62–5.36) and obesity (RR: 3.44; 2.81–4.21). Corresponding top‐ranked risk factors in men were obesity (RR: 3.86; 3.46–4.30), type 2 diabetes (RR: 1.88; 1.61–2.19) and reduced kidney function (RR: 1.86; 1.48–2.34). For the community, top‐ranked risk factors in women were menopause (PAF: 63%), obesity (PAF: 29%) and type 2 diabetes (PAF: 15%). Corresponding top‐ranked risk factors in men were obesity (PAF: 29%), type 2 diabetes (PAF: 6.4%) and sedentary lifestyle (PAF: 6.0%).

Conclusions

Obesity and type 2 diabetes were the most important modifiable chylomicronemia risk factors in women and men, both for the individual and community. This could influence chylomicronemia prevention and help design randomized trials aimed at reducing triglycerides.
Household Income, Women's Earnings, and Spending on Household Services, 1980–2010
Authors: Kornrich Sabino , Roberts Allison
Published: November 2017

The authors investigated changes in household outsourcing, the practice of spending on services that replace household labor, from 1980 to 2010. During this time, women's labor force participation, increased and economic, household bargaining, and time availability theories predict increased spending during this period. To test these predictions, the authors used data on spending on housekeeping, day care, babysitting and nannies, gardening and lawn services, eating out and pre‐prepared foods from the 1980–2010 Consumer Expenditure Surveys using 327,903 household‐quarters from the interview survey and 86,877 household‐weeks from the diary survey. The results indicate that changes in income predicted increases in housekeeping, child care, and gardening services. Changes in household characteristics predicted little change in food outsourcing, although food outsourcing did increase. Changes in women's earnings predicted little change in most outsourcing. The authors conclude the article with a discussion of the changing context for outsourcing.
Natural plant volatiles as an alternative approach to control stem‐end rot in avocado cultivars
Authors: Obianom Chinelo , Sivakumar Dharini
Published: November 2017

Stem‐end rot is a postharvest disease associated with multiple important fungal pathogens including Lasiodiplodia theobromae. The incidence of stem‐end rot in avocado during postharvest storage affects the shelf life, quality and marketability of the fruit. This study is aimed at the investigation of the antifungal activities of selected natural plant volatiles (vapour phase): citral, octanal, hexanal and thymol against L. theobromae (causal pathogen of stem‐end rot) in vitro and in vivo in “Hass” and “Fuerte” avocados. Hexanal showed a lower inhibitory effect on the radial mycelial growth of L. theobromae in vitro. However, citral at a minimum concentration of 4 μl/L revealed fungicidal activity and completely inhibited the spore germination of L. theobromae. Artificially inoculated “Hass” and “Fuerte” avocados with L. theobromae were exposed to citral (768 μl) and commercial fungicide prochloraz and stored for 6 days at 20°C and 14 days at 10°C separately and thereafter held at 20°C for 3 days to simulate the retail shelf conditions. Although citral in a volatile phase effectively reduced the development of stem‐end rot in both cultivars, its effect was significant in “Fuerte” with 75% reduction in the incidence of stem‐end rot. The biochemical analysis demonstrated an increase in total phenol contents, phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase, chitinase and β‐1, 3 glucanase activity in fruit exposed to citral when compared to the reference treatment prochloraz and the untreated control for both cultivars. Furthermore, fruits exposed to citral retained the ready‐to‐eat firmness and therefore could be considered a potential alternative treatment to control stem‐end rot at the postharvest stage.
Achieving Research Design Excellence Through the Pursuit of Perfection: Toward Strong Theoretical Calibration
Authors: Ketchen David J. , Craighead Christopher W. , Cheng Li
Published: November 2017

Supply chain research has become increasingly theory‐driven, research designs have become more rigorous, and analytical methods have grown in depth and breadth. Given this important and positive progression, we believe that it is time for scholars to abandon a popular data collection method—single‐source surveys—due to its inherent limitations. In the past, single‐source surveys have fueled important steps forward in knowledge development, but the field has progressed to the point that stronger designs are needed. Rather than attacking past research grounded in single‐source surveys (including our own) or offering stop‐gap advice (e.g., get more respondents), we offer a more constructive path forward—scholars should let their theory drive their designs. Specifically, we propose the concept of theoretical calibration—the degree to which the key tenets of a study's theory are captured within its research design—and describe four approaches that scholars can take to increase theoretical calibration. Our hope is that, in the future, surveys will remain one important method among many that can be used to build knowledge and inform managers, but that journal gatekeepers will judge designs that rely on single‐source surveys alone to no longer be sufficient.
Invasive plants differ from native plants in their impact on native communities
Authors: Sun Yan , Junod Aline
Published: November 2017

Aims

Although the impacts of alien plant invasions on native communities are well documented, the mechanisms that underlie these impacts are poorly resolved. Little is yet known as to why invasive alien plants have greater impacts than native species on their neighbouring species within a community. We investigated two potential mechanisms by which invasive plants may harm neighbouring species: resource competition and novel compounds of the invaders.

Locations

Field removal experiment in France and Switzerland, and common garden experiment at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland.

Methods

We first conducted a field removal experiment to compare the response of neighbouring communities to experimental biomass removal of two alien invasive vs two dominant native plant species in two sites of each target species (thus eight sites in total). In addition, we conducted a common garden pot experiment to compare the effect of eight triplets of closely related target species (24 species in total), each consisting of an alien invasive species in Europe, a dominant native and a random native species, on the growth of a grass community under the addition or not of activated carbon (AC).

Results

(1) Field removal experiment: in the control plots, we found that the biomass of native species explained a substantial amount of the variation in biomass of the neighbouring communities, but the invader's biomass did not. Moreover, the neighbouring community recovered from removal of the dominant native species, showing a significant increase in biomass, but did not after removal of the invaders. (2) Common garden pot experiment: we found a larger effect of invasive species than native species on the growth rate of the grass community, but this difference disappeared when AC was added.

Conclusion

Both experiments suggest that the impact of some invasive species is not driven by resource competition, but by other mechanisms, most likely by novel weapons or novel plant–soil interactions.
COMMENTARY ON “MOVING THROUGH ADOLESCENCE: DEVELOPMENTAL TRAJECTORIES OF AFRICAN AMERICAN AND EUROPEAN AMERICAN YOUTH”
Authors: Smetana Judith G.
Published: November 2017

This commentary discusses Gutman et al.'s monograph on developmental trajectories of African American and European American youth. Conceptual and methodological strengths of the monograph are highlighted, and the historical context of the study, including societal and technological changes that have altered the experience of adolescence and advances in developmental science that have occurred since the MADICS was conducted, are discussed. Finally, several suggestions are offered for ways Gutman et al.'s analyses could be elaborated to address further questions about adolescent development in context.
Proteomic profile of aphids exposed to wheat with different contents of benzoxazinoids
Authors: Barrios‐Sanmartín Joceline , Bosquée Emilie , Rubio‐Meléndez María E. , Ramírez Claudio C. , Francis Frédéric
Published: November 2017

Benzoxazinoids are key defence chemicals in cereals that are known to affect several aspects of aphid biology. However, little is known about how they affect aphid physiology. In the present study, we report changes in the whole‐body proteomic profiles of a 2,4‐dihydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐3‐one (DIMBOA)‐susceptible genotype of the grain aphid Sitobion avenae (F.) after being exposed to wheat cultivars containing contrasting levels of DIMBOA. The proteome is analyzed after 14 days (short term) and 28 days (long term) of rearing on these cultivars. Seventy‐two proteins are differentially regulated among the treatments and 49 are identified. Exposure to high‐DIMBOA plants results in a higher number of proteins regulated long term. DIMBOA exposure in S. avenae initially generates greater cellular activities, mostly involving cytoskeleton function and possibly related to detoxification. This function appears to be unimportant at long term and is eventually replaced by effects on metabolism function and homeostasis. Taken together, the results of the present study show that the responses of aphids to the secondary plant compounds, such as DIMBOA, exhibit a temporal dynamic in the proteome, possibly helping aphids to overcome the effect of these toxic compounds.
Nuclear inverse polarity papillary lesions lacking myoepithelial cells: A report of two cases
Authors: Tajima Shinya , Maeda Ichiro , Aida Yoshio , Kazama Akio , Koizumi Hirotaka , Doi Masatomo , Endo Akira , Chosokabe Motohiro , Kishimoto Keiko , Ono Takafumi , Tsugawa Koichiro , Takagi Masayuki
Published: November 2017

Here, cases of a 68‐ (Case 1) and a 44‐year‐old (Case 2) female are presented. They had an abnormality in the breast, and came to our hospital for further examination and treatment. Radiologically, malignancy could not completely excluded so breast excision was performed. Histologically, both cases revealed papillary neoplastic lesions lined by fibrovascular core and nuclear inverse polarity without atypia. Loss of myoepithelial cells was observed by HE, p63, and calponin. Previous report indicate CK5/6, ER, p63 and MUC3 are important for distinguishing between papillary lesions according to the differential index (based on Allred score) of ([ER total score] + [MUC3 total score])/([CK5/6 total score] + [p63 total score] + 1). Based on this analysis, our two cases had benign lesions. However, based on immunopositivity for cell‐cycle marker Cyclin‐D1, Case 1 was negative, and Case 2 was about 70% positive. Additionally, the Ki‐67 index was <1% in both cases, and no evidence of disease was observed after a maximum 62 months of follow‐up in both cases, despite lack of additional treatment. Thus, we propose that lack of myoepithelial cells in papillary lesions do not necessarily indicate malignancy and are thought to be, at the most, uncertain malignant potential.