bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High prevalence of hepatitis E virus antibodies among blood donors in Southern Brazil
Authors: Passos‐Castilho Ana Maria , de Sena Anne , Geraldo Alexandre , Spada Celso , Granato Celso F.H.
Published: July 2015

Brazil has been classified as moderately endemic for hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. However, data on the seroprevalence of HEV in this region are limited. This study evaluated the prevalence of past or present HEV infection among blood donors in the metropolitan area of Itajai Valley, Southern Brazil, a region of predominant German heritage, where cultural habits result in a high consumption of pork. Serum samples from 300 blood donors were tested in December 2014 using serological and molecular methods. Anti‐HEV IgG antibodies were detected in 30 (10%) subjects, and categorized age groups revealed an age‐dependent increase of HEV seroprevalence. Only one subject had anti‐HEV IgM, whereas none tested positive for HEV‐RNA. The present data demonstrate a higher seroprevalence of anti‐HEV IgG in blood donors than previously reported in Brazil. J. Med. Virol. 88:361–364, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiple astrovirus MLB1, MLB2, VA2 clades, and classic human astrovirus in children with acute gastroenteritis in Japan
Authors: Khamrin Pattara , Thongprachum Aksara , Okitsu Shoko , Hayakawa Satoshi , Maneekarn Niwat , Ushijima Hiroshi
Published: July 2015

This study investigated the genetic variability of astroviruses in children with acute gastroenteritis in Japan in 2012 to 2013. A total of 330 fecal specimens collected from children with diarrhea were tested for astroviruses using RT‐PCR and nucleotide sequencing techniques. Among the tested specimens, 54 (16.4%) were positive for astrovirus. Three different phylogenetic clades were detected. MLB was the most predominant clade (35 samples), followed by classic astrovirus (17 samples), and VA astrovirus (2 samples). Two types of MLB were identified (MLB1 and MLB2), while classic astroviruses were HAstV1 and HAstV4. Two VA astroviruses were identified as VA2. J. Med. Virol. 88:356–360, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Innate immune response and implant loosening: Interferon gamma is inversely associated with early migration of total knee prostheses
Authors: Schoeman Monique A. E. , Pijls Bart G. , Oostlander Angela E. , Keurentjes Johan C. , Valstar Edward R. , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Meulenbelt Ingrid
Published: July 2015

To allow prediction of the risk of loosening prior to surgery, we investigated the relationship between innate immune cytokine response via TLR2 stimulation and early migration of six different knee prostheses using RSA (radiostereometry). This study included 114 patients of a prospective RSA‐cohort who received a total knee arthroplasty. Whole blood cytokine responses were obtained by ex vivo stimulation with tripalmitoyl‐S‐glycerylcysteine (Pam3Cys‐SK4) for assessment of the TLR2 immune response. Early migration was calculated using the maximum total point motion (MTPM) 1 year post surgery. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to the cytokine data to reduce the correlated data of individual cytokines and identified two components. Subsequently, linear mixed model analyses were applied with adjustments for gender, age, BMI, time‐to‐blood sampling, and prosthesis type. Component 1, consisting of IFNγ, IL‐12p40, IL‐10, IL‐1β, TNFα, and IL‐6, showed a significant inverse association (β = −0.128; p = 0.041) with MTPM. Further analysis showed that IFNγ (β = −0.161, p = 0.008) had the highest contribution to this association and is particularly found in patients receiving another prosthesis than Nexgen (β = −0.239; p < 0.001). In conclusion, patients with high levels of IFNγ upon stimulation of TLR2 are at lower risk of early migration of their knee prosthesis. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:121–126, 2016.
Pathological role of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes in charcot neuroarthropathy
Authors: Molligan Jeremy , Barr Cameron , Mitchell Reed , Schon Lew , Zhang Zijun
Published: July 2015

This study was designed to characterize the synovium in the joints of Charcot neuroarthropathy (CNA) and investigate the potential role of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) in the pathology of CNA. Synovial samples were collected from CNA patients (n = 7) and non‐CNA patients (n = 7), for control, during orthopaedic procedures and used for histology and isolation of FLS. Histological characterization of synovium included innervation and FLS localization. The isolated FLS from the CNA and non‐CNA synovium were cultured, with or without tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), for evaluation of invasiveness, gene expression, and cartilage degradation. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), a neuropeptide, was supplemented into the co‐cultures of FLS and cartilage explants. Compared with the non‐CNA synovium, CNA synovium was highly inflammatory, with reduced innervation and intense expression of cadherin‐11. The FLS isolated from CNA synovium, particularly when activated with TNF‐α, were more invasive, increased the expression of ADAMTS4, IL‐6, and RANKL, and depleted proteoglycans from cartilage explants when they were co‐cultured. Addition of VIP into the culture medium neutralized the catabolic effect of the CNA FLS on cartilage explants. In conclusion, FLS plays an important role in the pathology of CNA. Therapies targeting synovium and FLS may prevent or treat the joint destruction in CNA. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:224–230, 2016.
Evaluation of stair motion contributes to new insights into hip osteoarthritis‐related motion pathomechanics
Authors: Meyer Christophe A.G. , Corten Kristoff , Fieuws Steffen , Deschamps Kevin , Monari Davide , Wesseling Mariska , Simon Jean‐Pierre , Desloovere Kaat
Published: July 2015

Stair motion in the presence of hip osteoarthritis (OA) has received less attention than level walking. Its more strenuous aspect may shed the light on different locomotor strategies when compared to walking. We, therefore, aimed to define stair motion features associated to hip OA and to evaluate whether these specific features would differ from level walking and better characterize the hip pathological condition. Principal component and linear discriminant analyses were, respectively, used as data reduction and classification techniques. Our study highlighted that most of stair motion features associated to hip OA were similar to the ones of walking. Stair descent presented with the lowest misclassification error rate, ranging from 12% to 19% (estimated by cross‐validation). But, features that may be considered as a mechanism to reduce demand on the hip abductors were found to be more important in the stair ascent condition. This was reflected by both, greater importance in the classification rule and variance compared with walking, that is, decreased hip internal rotation moment at mid‐stance (72.50% vs. 57.63%) and increased trunk lateroflexion toward affected side (56.43% vs. 29.37%). This study emphasized the importance of investigating stair motion in hip osteoarthritic population by highlighting specific locomotor strategies. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:187–196, 2016.
Static and dynamic compression application and removal on the intervertebral discs of growing rats
Authors: Ménard Anne‐Laure , Grimard Guy , Massol Elise , Londono Irène , Moldovan Florina , Villemure Isabelle
Published: July 2015

Fusionless implants are used to correct pediatric progressive spinal deformities, most of them spanning the intervertebral disc. This study aimed at investigating the effects of in vivo static versus dynamic compression application and removal on discs of growing rats. A microloading device applied compression. 48 immature rats (28 d.o.) were divided into two groups (43d, 53d). Each group included four subgroups: control (no surgery), sham (device installed without loading), static (0.2 MPa) and dynamic compressions (0.2 MPa ± 30% with 0.1 Hz). In 43d subgroups, compression was applied for 15 days. In 53d subgroups, compression was followed by 10 days without loading. Disc heights, nucleus/annulus volumetric proportions and nucleus proteoglycan contents were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and post‐hoc Tukey comparisons (p < 0.05). Disc heights of 43d and 53d static and dynamic loading rats were lower than shams (p < 0.05). Volumetric proportions remained similar. At 43d, nucleus proteoglycan contents increased in both static and dynamic loading rats. However, at 53d, static loading rats had lower proteoglycan content than dynamic loading rats (p < 0.05). Disc structure is altered following static compression removal, but nucleus proteoglycan content remaining elevated in dynamic group. Dynamic fusionless implants would better preserve disc integrity. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:290–298, 2016.
Novel intracellular N‐terminal truncated matrix metalloproteinase‐2 isoform in skeletal muscle ischemia‐reperfusion injury
Authors: Joshi Sunil K. , Lee Lawrence , Lovett David H. , Kang Heejae , Kim Hubert T. , Delgado Cynthia , Liu Xuhui
Published: July 2015

Ischemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) occurs when blood returns to tissues following a period of ischemia. Reintroduction of blood flow results in the production of free radicals and reactive oxygen species that damage cells. Skeletal muscle IRI is commonly seen in orthopedic trauma patients. Experimental studies in other organ systems have elucidated the importance of extracellular and intracellular matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2) isoforms in regulating tissue damage in the setting of oxidant stress resulting from IRI. Although the extracellular full‐length isoform of MMP‐2 (FL‐MMP‐2) has been previously studied in the setting of skeletal muscle IRI, studies investigating the role of the N‐terminal truncated isoform (NTT‐MMP‐2) in this setting are lacking. In this study, we first demonstrated significant increases in FL‐ and NTT‐MMP‐2 gene expression in C2C12 myoblast cells responding to re‐oxygenation following hypoxia in vitro. We then evaluated the expression of FL‐ and NTT‐MMP‐2 in modulating skeletal muscle IRI using a previously validated murine model. NTT‐MMP‐2, but not FL‐MMP‐2 expression was significantly increased in skeletal muscle following IRI. Moreover, the expression of toll‐like receptors (TLRs) ‐2 and ‐4, IL‐6, OAS‐1A, and CXCL1 was also significantly up‐regulated following IRI. Treatment with the potent anti‐oxidant pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC) significantly suppressed NTT‐MMP‐2, but not FL‐MMP‐2 expression and improved muscle viability following IRI. This data suggests that NTT‐MMP‐2, but not FL‐MMP‐2, is the major isoform of MMP‐2 involved in skeletal muscle IRI. © 2015 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 34:502–509, 2016.
Assessment of polyaromatic hydrocarbons and pesticide residues in domestic and imported pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) fish in India
Authors: Chatterjee Niladri Sekhar , Banerjee Kaushik , Utture Sagar , Kamble Narayan , Rao B Madhusudana , Panda Satyen Kumar , Mathew Suseela
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

The pangasius catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) is a ubiquitous item of seafood in global markets. However, pesticide residues in aquaculture fish, arising from agricultural run‐off and/or direct application during pond preparation, pest control and harvest, are a potential food safety concern. This study assessed the level of chemical hazard in domestic and imported pangasius fish in India.

RESULTS

A total of 119 contaminants, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organochlorines (OCs) and other groups of pesticides, were screened in 148 samples during 2014–2015 as the first endeavour of its kind in an Indian context, employing a validated gas chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) method. Apart from the low‐level incidence of OCs, pesticides such as quinalphos, malathion, parathion‐methyl, etc. were detected in 38% of the samples. In comparison with Indian pangasius, fewer contaminants at low residue level were detected in pangasius fillets imported from Vietnam.

CONCLUSION

The human dietary exposures of the residue concentrations detected were less than the maximum permissible intakes and hence appeared safe. However, detection of commonly used pesticides indicated their direct application in aquaculture and contamination from agricultural run‐off. This emphasizes the need for continual residue monitoring in aquaculture fish. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Proximate composition and nutritional quality of deep sea growth sea cucumbers (Stichopus japonicus) from different origins
Authors: Gao Yue , Li Zhibo , Qi Yanxia , Guo Zhenyu , Lin Yantong , Li Wei , Hu Yucai , Zhao Qiancheng
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

Deep sea growth sea cucumber (Stichopus japonicus) (DSG‐SC) is considered a most nutritious and luxurious seafood in Asia. This study compared the proximate composition and nutritional quality of collagen, polysaccharides, amino acids (AAs) and fatty acids (FAs) in DSG‐SCs from different origins.

RESULTS

The contents of protein, ash, carbohydrate, fat, collagen, saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), total amino acids (TAAs), essential amino acids (EAAs), fucose and uronic acid differed among the origins. DSG‐SC of Dalian origin had lower contents of ash, fat, uronic acid, TAAs and EAAs but higher contents of protein, collagen, PUFAs, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and fucose compared with the other origins. DSG‐SCs had a higher proportion of PUFAs and were richer in polysaccharides than other seafood. Glutamate and glycine were the dominant AAs, while leucine and threonine were the most abundant EAAs.

CONCLUSION

DSG‐SCs are a good source of collagen, polysaccharides (especially fucose), EAAs (especially leucine and threonine) and PUFAs (especially EPA and DHA). Dalian seems to be a promising origin to produce high‐value sea cucumber with high PUFA, fucose, collagen and protein contents. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Preharvest temperature affects chilling injury in dessert bananas during storage
Authors: Bugaud Christophe , Joannès‐Dumec Charlène , Louisor Jacques , Tixier Philippe , Salmon Frédéric
Published: July 2015

BACKGROUND

The effect of temperature on chilling injury during fruit growth was studied in a new banana hybrid CIRAD925 in which seasonal variability in chilling susceptibility was observed when fruits were stored at 13 °C.

RESULTS

The relationship between the response to chilling (presence/absence) and the temperature during banana fruit growth was examined with a logistic regression model. An explanatory variable XN,P was defined as the mean temperature during a period, expressed in weeks, which began N week(s) after flowering and lasted P week(s). The model was calibrated with 143 bunches with a green life of 30 ± 5 days and validated with 156 bunches grown in six plots under different growing conditions. Chilling injury was best predicted by the mean temperature during the period beginning 1 week after flowering and lasting 5 weeks (X1,5). Above a mean temperature of 24.1 °C in the period concerned, banana fruits had a 95% probability of chilling injury at 13 °C. Below a temperature of 23.4 °C, banana fruits only had a 5% probability of chilling injury.

CONCLUSION

The results provide a tool to predict chilling susceptibility in banana fruit whatever the thermal conditions in tropical regions. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Variation in the nitrogen isotopic composition of amino acids in benthic foraminifera: Implications for their adaptation to oxygen‐depleted environments
Authors: Nomaki Hidetaka , Chikaraishi Yoshito , Tsuchiya Masashi , Toyofuku Takashi , Suga Hisami , Sasaki Yoko , Uematsu Katsuyuki , Tame Akihiro , Ohkouchi Naohiko
Published: July 2015

We evaluated nitrate utilization by benthic foraminifera at the redox boundary around the sediment‐water interface by examining the stable nitrogen isotopic composition (δ15N, ‰ vs. AIR) of amino acids. Five foraminiferal species collected from bathyal Sagami Bay (water depth, 1430 m) in three different sampling seasons were analyzed by determining the δ15N values of amino acids from whole cells and those in test (shell) proteins remaining after H2O2 treatment. The δ15N values of phenylalanine fell within a narrow range (typically 1–3‰) in the test proteins of all five species, but the whole‐cell δ15N values of phenylalanine were substantially different from those of the test proteins in two species, Globobulimina affinis (by 6.3‰) and Uvigerina akitaensis (by 4.5‰). These differences in the δ15N values of amino acids suggest that these species utilize nitrate in their cells probably for nitrate respiration (i.e., denitrification) to adapt to oxygen‐depleted environments, as was previously observed in the shallow water benthic foraminifera Ammonia sp. Apparent trophic positions determined using the δ15N values of amino acids also differed between whole cells and tests in G. affinis, U. akitaensis, and Ammonia sp., perhaps because they have different microbial associations, as observed by cellular ultrastructural analysis. These differences in nitrate utilization and microbial associations among benthic foraminifera suggest that foraminifera adapt in diverse ways to conditions in dysoxic to anoxic sediments.
Olfaction in Homozygous and Heterozygous SYNJ1 Arg258Gln Mutation Carriers
Authors: Picillo Marina , De Rosa Anna , Pellecchia Maria Teresa , Criscuolo Chiara , Amboni Marianna , Erro Roberto , Bonifati Vincenzo , De Michele Giuseppe , Barone Paolo
Published: July 2015

Hyposmia is a common nonmotor symptom in Parkinson's disease (PD) and has been variably detected in monogenic parkinsonism. SYNJ1 has been recently identified as the gene defective in a novel form of autosomal‐recessive, early‐onset atypical parkinsonism, designed as PARK20. To assess olfaction in PARK20, we administered the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) in four groups of subjects: SYNJ1 homozygous (HOM = 3) and heterozygous (HET = 4); sporadic PD (PD = 68); and healthy control subjects (CTR = 61). A linear regression model was constructed to assess the association between raw UPSIT score (outcome) and group (HOM, HET, PD, and CTR), adjusting for age, gender, and current smoking status. Likewise in PD patients, odor identification is impaired in homozygous SYNJ1 mutation carriers. Although the limited sample size precludes definite conclusions about olfaction in SYNJ1‐related parkinsonism, our findings suggest new insights into PARK20 phenotype and pathophysiology.
Estimating the Proportion of Essential Tremor and Parkinson's Disease Patients Undergoing Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery: Five‐Year Data From Columbia University Medical Center (2009–2014)
Authors: Kestenbaum Meir , Ford Blair , Louis Elan D.
Published: July 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to estimate, at a tertiary referral center, the proportion of essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson's disease (PD) patients who underwent DBS surgery.

Background

DBS surgery is an important treatment for ET and PD. Surprisingly, there are no published data on the precise proportion of such patients who are referred for this procedure.

Methods

Using the computerized billing database at the Center for Parkinson's Disease and Other Movement Disorders, Columbia University Medical Center, we searched for patients who received the diagnostic codes 333.1 (tremor) and 332.0 (PD) and who were followed by a doctor at the center during the 5‐year period from 2009 to 2014. The number of patients who underwent DBS surgery for these diagnoses during this time period was also determined.

Results

Seventy‐seven patients with these diagnoses (52 PD, 14 ET, and 11 ET + PD) who were followed at the center underwent DBS surgery during this time period. The proportion of ET patients who underwent DBS surgery was 2.90% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.78–4.02), and for PD this was 1.38% (95% CI: 1.04–1.72). The difference was significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

At a tertiary‐referral center, 1 in 34 ET patients and 1 in 72 PD patients underwent DBS surgery. Similar studies from other major centers would be of additional value. These data are likely to have utility when planning health care services for patients with these diagnoses.
Adenosine 2A Receptor Antagonists for the Treatment of Motor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Pourcher Emmanuelle , Huot Philippe
Published: July 2015

Background

Treatment of motor fluctuations in Parkinson's disease (PD) remains an unmet challenge. Adenosine 2A (A2A) receptors are located along the indirect pathway and represent a potential target to enhancel‐3,4‐dihydroxyphenylalanine (l‐DOPA) antiparkinsonian action.

Methods

This article summarizes the preclinical and clinical literature on A2Aantagonists inPD, with a specific focus on their effect onofftime,ontime, and dyskinesia.

Findings

Several A2Areceptor antagonists have been tested in preclinical studies and clinical trials. In preclinical studies, A2Aantagonists enhancedl‐DOPAantiparkinsonian action without exacerbating dyskinesia, but A2Aantagonists were generally administered in combination with a subthreshold dose ofl‐DOPA, which is different to the paradigms used in clinical trials, where A2Aantagonists were usually added to an optimal antiparkinsonian regimen. In clinical settings, A2Aantagonists generally reduced duration ofofftime, by as much as 25% in some studies. The effect ofontime duration is less clear, and in a few studies an exacerbation of dyskinesia was reported. Two A2Aantagonists have been tested in phaseIIIsettings: istradefylline and preladenant. Istradefylline was effective in two phaseIIItrials, but ineffective in another; the drug has been commercially available in Japan since 2013. In contrast, preladenant was ineffective in a phaseIIItrial and the drug was discontinued. A phaseIIIstudy with tozadenant will begin in 2015; the drug was effective at reducingofftime in a phaseIIb study. Other A2Aantagonists are in development at the preclinical and early clinical levels.
Corticobasal Syndrome in a Family with Early‐Onset Alzheimer's Disease Linked to a Presenilin‐1 Gene Mutation
Authors: Navarro Eloisa , De Andrés Clara , Guerrero Carmen , Giménez‐Roldán Santiago
Published: July 2015

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the second‐most frequent cause underlying corticobasal syndrome (CBS). However, a reliable diagnosis using clinical, neuropsychological, or neuroimaging approaches has not yet been achieved.

Methods

Clinical, neuropsychological, imaging, and neuropathology studies were undertaken in a large Spanish family with early‐onset familial AD (EOFAD) carrying a Met233Leu mutation linked to presenilin‐1 gene (PSEN‐1).

Results

Two of three examined members of this family presented with the usual amnestic pattern. At the age of 47 years, a third family member, in whom pathology was later confirmed, developed prominent CBS combined with severe neuropsychiatric and behavioral disturbances resembling those often found in EOFAD.

Conclusion

Although CBS in EOFAD appears to be rare, demonstration of a linkage to PSEN‐1 gene mutations may permit in vivo diagnosis.
Improving the development of early bovine somatic‐cell nuclear transfer embryos by treating adult donor cells with vitamin C
Authors: Chen Huanhuan , Zhang Lei , Guo Zekun , Wang Yongsheng , He Rongjun , Qin Yumin , Quan Fusheng , Zhang Yong
Published: July 2015

Vitamin C (Vc) has been widely studied in cell and embryo culture, and has recently been demonstrated to promote cellular reprogramming. The objective of this study was to identify a suitable Vc concentration that, when used to treat adult bovine fibroblasts serving as donor cells for nuclear transfer, improved donor‐cell physiology and the developmental potential of the cloned embryos that the donor nuclei were used to create. A Vc concentration of 0.15 mM promoted cell proliferation and increased donor‐cell 5‐hydroxy methyl cytosine levels 2.73‐fold (P < 0.05). The blastocyst rate was also significantly improved after nuclear transfer (39.6% treated vs. 26.0% control, P < 0.05); the average number of apoptotic cells in cloned blastocysts was significantly reduced (2.2 vs. 4.4, P < 0.05); and the inner cell mass‐to‐trophectoderm ratio (38.25% vs. 30.75%, P < 0.05) and expression of SOX2 (3.71‐fold, P < 0.05) and POU5F1 (3.15‐fold, P < 0.05) were significantly increased. These results suggested that Vc promotes cell proliferation, decreases DNA methylation levels in donor cells, and improves the developmental competence of bovine somatic‐cell nuclear transfer embryos. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 82: 867–879, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Deletion of low molecular weight protein tyrosine phosphatase (Acp1) protects against stress‐induced cardiomyopathy
Authors: Wade Fallou , Quijada Pearl , Al‐Haffar Kamar Mohamed Adib , Awad Salma Mahmoud , Kunhi Muhammad , Toko Haruhiro , Marashly Qussay , Belhaj Karim , Zahid Israa , Al‐Mohanna Falah , Stanford Stephanie M , Alvarez Roberto , Liu Yingge , Colak Dilek , Jordan Maria C , Roos Kenneth P , Assiri Abdullah , Al‐Habeeb Waleed , Sussman Mark , Bottini Nunzio , Poizat Coralie
Published: July 2015

The low molecular weight protein tyrosine phosphatase (LMPTP), encoded by the ACP1 gene, is a ubiquitously expressed phosphatase whose in vivo function in the heart and in cardiac diseases remains unknown. To investigate the in vivo role of LMPTP in cardiac function, we generated mice with genetic inactivation of the Acp1 locus and studied their response to long‐term pressure overload. Acp1−/− mice develop normally and ageing mice do not show pathology in major tissues under basal conditions. However, Acp1−/− mice are strikingly resistant to pressure overload hypertrophy and heart failure. Lmptp expression is high in the embryonic mouse heart, decreased in the postnatal stage, and increased in the adult mouse failing heart. We also show that LMPTP expression increases in end‐stage heart failure in humans. Consistent with their protected phenotype, Acp1−/− mice subjected to pressure overload hypertrophy have attenuated fibrosis and decreased expression of fibrotic genes. Transcriptional profiling and analysis of molecular signalling show that the resistance of Acp1−/− mice to pathological cardiac stress correlates with marginal re‐expression of fetal cardiac genes, increased insulin receptor beta phosphorylation, as well as PKA and ephrin receptor expression, and inactivation of the CaMKIIδ pathway. Our data show that ablation of Lmptp inhibits pathological cardiac remodelling and suggest that inhibition of LMPTP may be of therapeutic relevance for the treatment of human heart failure. © 2015 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Poly(amide‐hydrazide)s–graphene composites synthesis and characterization
Authors: Elsabee Maher Z. , Nassar Mohamed , Morsi Rania E. , Elkholy Said S.
Published: July 2015

Poly(amide‐hydrazide)s copolymers were prepared using hydrazide derivative of phenylene diamine to react with aromatic diacid chloride. The wholly aromatic poly(amide‐hydrazide)s have better solubility in organic polar solvents, such as N,N‐dimethylacetamide, dimethylsulfoxide, 1‐methyl‐2‐pyrollidone, and N,N‐dimethylformamide, at room temperature, while still maintaining their high thermal stability. Graphene in the nano size was used as a filler to enhance their thermal and mechanical properties. The polymers as well as the composite were characterized by spectral and mechanical tools as well as by X‐ray analysis. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1311–1318, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
A novel superabsorbent from raw corn straw and poly(acrylic acid)
Authors: Jin Shuping , Chen Jun , Mao Jianying , Yue Guoren , Han Yuqi , Yu Xinghai
Published: July 2015

A superabsorbent (CS/PAA SAR) for agriculture based on raw corn straw was prepared by free radical polymerization of acrylic acid (AA) in the presence of corn straw (CS) powder, which was used as received without any treatments. The water absorbency (WA) of SAR was investigated. The results show that SAR possesses a maximum WA of 663 g/g in distilled water and 61 g/g in 0.9 wt% NaCl solution. The structure of SAR was studied by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimeter, respectively. And the results indicate that the CS/PAA SAR possesses an interconnecting polymer network and sea‐island type phase separated structure, and the crystallinity decreases compared with the native cellulose because of the decreased content of CS. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:1353–1362, 2017. © 2015 Society of Plastics Engineers
Helping to drive the robustness of preclinical research – the assay capability tool
Authors: Gore Katrina , Stanley Phil
Published: July 2015

Numerous articles in Nature, Science, Pharmacology Research and Perspectives, and other biomedical research journals over the past decade have highlighted that research is plagued by findings that are not reliable and cannot be reproduced. Poor experiments can occur, in part, as a consequence of inadequate statistical thinking in the experimental design, conduct and analysis. As it is not feasible for statisticians to be involved in every preclinical experiment many of the same journals have published guidelines on good statistical practice. Here, we outline a tool that addresses the root causes of irreproducibility in preclinical research in the pharmaceutical industry. The Assay Capability Tool uses 13 questions to guide scientists and statisticians during the development of in vitro and in vivo assays. It promotes the absolutely essential experimental design and analysis strategies and documents the strengths, weaknesses, and precision of an assay. However, what differentiates it from other proposed solutions is the emphasis on how the resulting data will be used. An assay can be assigned a low, medium, or high rating to indicate the level of confidence that can be afforded when making important decisions using data from that assay. This provides transparency on the appropriate interpretation of the assay's results in the light of its current capability. We suggest that following a well‐defined process during assay development and use such as that laid out within the Assay Capability Tool means that whatever the results, positive or negative, a researcher can have confidence to make decisions upon and publish their findings.
Key role of publication of clinical data for target validation
Authors: Hayes Ann
Published: July 2015

Drug discovery productivity has failed to improve markedly in recent years and a key issue is high attrition due to efficacy failures in initial proof‐of concept clinical studies. This reflects the fact that preclinical “target validation” studies do not always translate into man, where ultimate target validation must reside. Given these facts, it is easy to see the importance of results from those first clinical validation studies for overall target validation. There are various initiatives to promote the publication of clinical data, but many clinical results, particularly negative results, remain unpublished, are published in obscure places or are published after a considerable delay. This gives rise to the potential that vast sums of money could be spent on compounds for which the molecular target has essentially been invalidated, but the data are not publicly available. Pharmacology, Research and Perspectives has indicated that it will welcome publication of all data pertinent to target validation, particularly negative data (clinical and preclinical), and it will do so in a form that should be relatively rapid and easy to achieve.
Replication – why we need to publish our findings
Authors: Curtis Michael J. , Abernethy Darrell R.
Published: July 2015

The pharmacology research sector is changing to accommodate a need for greater transparency and better standards. The themed articles contained herein explain how Pharmacology Research and Perspectives (PR&P) has responded to this agenda. This issue of PR&P contains three articles that consider the reliability of pharmacological research publications, and approaches to their improvement in this regard. This first article explains the importance of publishing findings that confirm or repudiate published findings (so called “replication” studies). It also emphasizes that PR&P actively encourages submission of such articles, and seeks to oppose the publication bias that favors publication of “positive” findings. The second paper explores some initiatives to publish “negative” clinical findings, including a PR&P initiative. The final paper elaborates a toolkit that can be applied to drug discovery research to facilitate the reliability of findings.
Clozapine toxicity associated with urinary tract infection
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: July 2015

Clozapine is very effective in patients with treatment‐resistant schizophrenia, but its pharmacokinetic profile is highly variable across individuals. Decreased drug metabolism resulting in drug toxicity in clozapine‐treated patients has been reported during infections and/or inflammatory processes.1–4 The following case described a patient with clozapine toxicity that was possibly associated with the occurrence of a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Step up your campus hazing prevention, response initiatives
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: July 2015

More than half of college students who are members of a club, team or organization experience hazing. And 40 percent of college students admit to knowing that hazing is occurring on campus, while 20 percent admit the coach or advisor was involved. That's according to a University of Maine study by Elizabeth Allen and Mary Madden.
Address stalking incidents via threat assessment, behavioral intervention teams
Authors: Bennett Laura
Published: July 2015

College and university campuses face new requirements to report on, respond to and prevent stalking, per the October 2014 revisions to the Clery Act.
Ensure that campus institutional research officials understand the need to conduct campus climate studies
Authors: Gomez Cynthia
Published: July 2015

Following the creation of the White House Task Force to Protect Students from Sexual Assault, the Association for Institutional Research launched a survey to find out how much awareness of the task force and its recommendations existed among its members.
Be alert for overlooked ADHD diagnoses due to symptom differences in women
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: July 2015

Historically, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was thought to be manifested only in boys and characterized by hyperactivity. It was believed to dissipate by adolescence. Consequently, most ADHD studies used only, or predominantly, males. Although much has been learned, many still mistakenly believe it to be just a boys' disorder.
Practice strategies to successfully lead your student affairs unit through change
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: July 2015

Change is a constant at many colleges and universities. But what does it take to lead change?
Revisiting the firm, industry, and country effects on profitability under recessionary and expansion periods: A multilevel analysis
Authors: Bamiatzi Vassiliki , Bozos Konstantinos , Cavusgil S. Tamer , Hult G. Tomas M.
Published: July 2015

Research summary: Despite voluminous past research, the relevance of firm, industry, and country effects on profitability, particularly under adverse contexts, is still unclear. We reconcile institutional theory with the resource‐based view and industrial organization economics to investigate the effects of economic adversity, such as the 2008 global economic crisis. Using a three‐level random coefficient model, we examine 15,008 firms across 10 emerging and 10 developed countries for the 2005–2011 period. We find that firm effects become stronger under adversity, whereas industry effects become weaker, as well as country main and interaction effects, particularly among the emerging economies. These findings confirm our assumptions that the firm's own fate is, to a great extent, self‐determined; a reality that is even more pronounced during periods of extreme economic hardship.

Managerial summary: In this research, we examine how generalized economic adversity affects the balance across the firm‐, industry‐, and country‐specific factors determining firm profitability. We specifically examine 15,008 firms from 10 emerging and 10 developed countries during the 2005–2011 period to investigate the effects of the 2008 global economic crisis on firm performance. We find that in such adverse conditions, the role of the industry and the country are reduced and the firm's own resources and capabilities become more pertinent for firm performance. This phenomenon is more pronounced across emerging markets. We conclude that the firm's own fate is, to a great extent, self‐determined, a reality that is markedly more evident during periods of extreme economic hardship. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ephedra protects vascular endothelium cells from vinorelbine‐induced cytotoxicity by preserving endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity
Authors: Konaka Ken , Moriyama Kota , Okada Naoto , Nishisako Hirotaka , Shono Masayuki , Kawazoe Kazuyoshi , Ishizawa Keisuke
Published: July 2015

Aim

Vinorelbine is an anticancer drug associated with vascular injury. The mechanism of vascular injury is associated with the decrease of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which regulates oxidative stress. Kakkonto, a traditional Japanese medicine, has anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidative effects. We evaluated the effect of kakkonto on vinorelbine‐induced vascular injury and its mechanism of action.

Methods

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were used as the endothelial model. We compared vinorelbine‐induced cytotoxicity after pre‐incubation with the seven kakkonto components using ATP assay. Mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed using Mitochondrial Membrane Potential Assay Kit. Intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) was measured with a calcium‐sensitive dye, Fluo‐4 AM. eNOS and Akt phosphorylation after ephedra extract or vinorelbine treatment were investigated on western blot.

Results

Ephedra, a kakkonto component, protected cells against vinorelbine‐induced cytotoxicity. Ephedra extract preserved eNOS phosphorylation by increasing [Ca2+]i, but it had no effect on Akt phosphorylation. The increase in [Ca2+]i was mediated by Ca2+ influx via l‐type calcium channels. Additionally, inhibition of Ca2+ influx or eNOS phosphorylation abolished the effects of ephedra extract.

Conclusion

Ephedra extract preserved eNOS phosphorylation following vinorelbine‐induced oxidative stress, thereby protecting cells from vinorelbine‐induced cytotoxicity. Moreover, the protective effect of ephedra extract is dependent on the increase of [Ca2+]i and the Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent signal transduction pathway.
Habitat associations of breeding mallards and Canada geese in southern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Messmer David J. , Petrie Scott A. , Badzinski Shannon S. , Gloutney Mark L. , Schummer Michael L.
Published: July 2015

Understanding habitat associations of breeding mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) and Canada geese (Branta canadensis maxima) in the eastern US and Canada is important for conservation planning, yet studies at spatial scales useful to conservation planners have mostly occurred in the midcontinent prairie pothole region (PPR). Our broad objective was to determine whether breeding pairs were associated with similar habitat types in an eastern ecozone, the mixed woodland plain of southern Ontario, Canada, as they are in the PPR, despite substantial differences in relative habitat availability and land use practices. We used helicopter surveys and remote sensing to investigate habitat associations at landscape (25 km2) and local (500 m wetland buffer [79 ha]) scales during the 2008 and 2009 breeding seasons. At both spatial scales, mallard indicated breeding pairs (IBP) were positively associated with the abundance or area of temporary open water and emergent (seasonal or semipermanent) wetland types, similar to the PPR. However, against expectations, we did not detect an effect of grassland area. Canada goose IBP were most strongly associated with total wetland abundance, and not specifically with emergent and permanent open‐water wetlands as expected. At the local scale, goose IBP presence was positively associated with riverine wetland area. Unlike the PPR, our study area contained a high proportion of forested and riverine wetlands; however, with the exception of the riverine wetland–Canada goose association noted above, we did not detect a disproportionate influence of these wetland types on mallards or geese. © 2015 The Wildlife Society.
Natural Rumen‐Derived trans Fatty Acids Are Associated with Metabolic Markers of Cardiac Health
Authors: Da Silva Marine S. , Julien Pierre , Pérusse Louis , Vohl Marie‐Claude , Rudkowska Iwona
Published: July 2015

Evidence suggests that industrial trans fatty acids (iTFA) impair lipid profiles while ruminant trans fatty acids (rTFA) may lower insulin resistance and blood pressure. The objective of this article was to determine if the plasma phospholipid percentage of rTFA is associated with a favorable cardiometabolic profile. We collected fasting blood samples from 200 individuals from Quebec city (QC, Canada) aged from 18 to 55 years old, including 100 obese (BMI ≥ 30 kg m−2) and 100 non‐obese (BMI < 30 kg m−2) men and women. Fatty acid levels in plasma phospholipids were determined using gas chromatography. After separating the subjects into two groups, according to the median percentage of rTFA in plasma phospholipids, participants in the group with higher percentages of rTFA (0.86 ± 0.24 %) had higher adiponectin levels (p = 0.01) and a lower blood pressure (systolic, p = 0.005; diastolic, p = 0.04). In contrast, concentrations in plasma phospholipids of elaidic acid, a major iTFA, are positively correlated with glycemia in non‐obese subjects (p = 0.01) and with both triacylglycerol (TAG) (p = 0.0007) and total cholesterol (TC) (p = 0.009) in obese subjects. These data suggest that rTFA may have beneficial effects on cardiometabolic risk factors conversely to their counterpart iTFA. Dietary sources of TFA should be taken into account in future cardiometabolic studies.
Effect of Agronomical Factors and Storage Conditions on the Tocopherol Content of Oblica and Leccino Virgin Olive Oils
Authors: Jukić Špika Maja , Kraljić Klara , Koprivnjak Olivera , Škevin Dubravka , Žanetić Mirella , Katalinić Miro
Published: July 2015

The influence of agronomical factors (two growing areas and four harvest periods) and storage conditions of virgin olive oils (room temperature, +4 and −20 °C) on tocopherols was investigated on two cultivars having significantly different tocopherol content (Oblica 269–443 mg/kg, Leccino 403–784 mg/kg). α‐Tocopherol accounted for 97 % of total tocopherols and its content decreased during ripening of both cultivars. In a warmer growing area both cultivars gained a higher γ‐tocopherol content while only Leccino showed a higher content of α‐tocopherol. After 12 months of storage α‐tocopherol content decreased by up to 27 %. Lower storage temperatures did not always contribute to the higher stability of α‐tocopherol compared to room temperature.
The presentation of Legg−Calvé−Perthes disease in females
Authors: Georgiadis Andrew G. , Seeley Mark A. , Yellin Joseph L. , Sankar Wudbhav N.
Published: July 2015

Purpose

Legg−Calvé−Perthes disease (LCPD) is uncommon in girls. The presentation of LCPD in female patients has been reported as later in onset and associated with certain high-impact activities. Our aim is to characterize the presentation of female LCPD at a large center, with particular attention to the clinical and radiographic features of late-onset disease (>ten years of age). We perceived an increasing burden of late-onset disease with adult-like radiographic features.

Methods

All patients presenting to a single large urban children's hospital from 1990−2014 with a diagnosis of LCPD were reviewed. Demographic, clinical, and radiographic data for all female patients were examined and compared to historical norms.

Results

Four-hundred and fifty-one patients presented with LCPD in the study period, of which 82 (18.2 %) were female. The average age at presentation was 6.58 years in girls, which is similar to the classically reported mean age. Fourteen patients participated in high-impact repetitive activities or those with deep flexion and abduction, although few were late presenters. There were four female patients who presented for initial diagnosis >ten years of age.

Conclusions

There was a paucity of late-onset LCPD in girls in the study population, and the females with LCPD had a very similar age and character to their presentation as did males. Although their presentation is infrequent, three of four older females with LCPD were engaged in high-level physical activity, and their disease may be attributed to high-impact, repetitive athletics.

Level of evidence

Case series, Level IV.
Affirmative Action and Productivity in the Indian Railways
Authors: Deshpande Ashwini , Weisskopf Thomas E.
Published: July 2015

Critics of affirmative action policies often claim that increasing the representation of members of marginalized communities in jobs comes at the cost of reduced productive efficiency. This paper reports on a systematic empirical analysis of productivity in the Indian Railways - the world's largest employer subject to affirmative action - in which we examined whether or not higher proportions of affirmative action beneficiaries in employment reduce efficiency in the railway system. We found no evidence for such an effect; and some of our results provide tentative support for the claim that greater labor force diversity boosts productivity.
The stability of alcohol consumption between age 16 and 26: Evidence from a National Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Percy Andrew , McKay Michael
Published: July 2015

This study examined the association between moderate drinking at age 16 (adolescence) and alcohol consumption at age 26 (young adulthood), whilst controlling for possible confounding effects at the individual and family level (assessed at birth and age 10). Using the British Cohort Study (BCS70), 6515 respondents provided data on their adolescent alcohol consumption and other behaviours. Of these, 4392 also completed the survey at age 26. Consumption patterns established in adolescence persisted, to a large degree, into early adulthood. Those adolescents who drank moderately in adolescence drank significantly less in adulthood than those adolescents who drank to heavy or hazardous levels. Implications for health promotion strategies and guidance are discussed.