bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful living donor liver retransplantation for graft failure within 7 days due to acute de novo donor‐specific anti‐human leukocyte antigen antibody‐mediated rejection
Authors: Yamada Yohei , Hoshino Ken , Mori Teisaburo , Kawaida Miho , Abe Kiyotomo , Ishihama Hideo , Shimizu Takahiro , Takahashi Nobuhiro , Matsubara Kentaro , Hibi Taizo , Abe Yuta , Yagi Hiroshi , Shimojima Naoki , Shinoda Masahiro , Kitago Minoru , Obara Hideaki , Fuchimoto Yasushi , Kameyama Kaori , Kitagawa Yuko , Kuroda Tatsuo
Published: June 2017

Growing evidence suggests a relationship between antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) and early graft failure due to a previously unknown etiology in liver transplantation (LTx). We herein report a 3‐year‐old boy who developed rapid graft failure due to de novo donor‐specific antibody (DSA)‐driven AMR a week after living donor LTx, requiring a second transplant on the 10th day after the first LTx. The pathology of the first graft showed massive necrosis in zone 3 along with positive C4d and inflammatory cell infiltrates in portal areas. The mean fluorescence intensity against human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR15, which was possessed by both the first and the second donor, peaked at 12 945 on the day before the second LTx. Antithymocyte globulin, plasma exchange along with i.v. immunoglobulin, rituximab, and the local infusion of prostaglandin E1, steroids, and Mesilate gabexate through a portal catheter were provided to save the second graft. To our knowledge, this is the first report to show a clear association between de novo DSA and acute AMR within 7 days of a LTx. Furthermore, we successfully rescued the recipient with a second graft despite possessing the same targeted HLA. The rapid decision to carry out retransplantation and specific strategies overcoming AMR were crucial to achieving success in this case of immunologically high‐risk LTx.
Insulin resistance increases the risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Seko Yuya , Sumida Yoshio , Tanaka Saiyu , Mori Kojiroh , Taketani Hiroyoshi , Ishiba Hiroshi , Hara Tasuku , Okajima Akira , Umemura Atsushi , Nishikawa Taichiro , Yamaguchi Kanji , Moriguchi Michihisa , Kanemasa Kazuyuki , Yasui Kohichiroh , Imai Shunsuke , Shimada Keiji , Itoh Yoshito
Published: June 2017

Aim

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major complication of patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this retrospective study is to determine the risk factors for development of T2DM in patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD.

Methods

One hundred and sixty two consecutive patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD who received a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test were enrolled as the total cohort. Among them, we analyzed 89 patients without T2DM diagnosed by oral glucose tolerance test to estimate the cumulative rate for development of T2DM as the follow‐up cohort.

Results

Of 162 patients, the glucose tolerance pattern were DM in 45 patients (27.8%), impaired glucose tolerance in 68 (42.0%), and normal glucose tolerance in 49 (30.2%). Patients with NAFL tended to be more likely to have normal glucose tolerance than those with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The serum levels of pre‐ and post‐load insulin were significantly higher in the NASH group. Of 89 patients without T2DM, 13 patients newly developed T2DM during a follow‐up period of 5.2 years. The cumulative rate of T2DM incidence was 8.8% at the end of the 5th year and 23.4% at the end of the 10th year. Multivariate analysis identified homeostasis model of assessment – insulin resistance (≥3.85, hazard ratio 40.1, P = 0.033) as an independent risk factor for development of T2DM.

Conclusions

Patients with NASH have an underlying potential of glucose intolerance. In NAFLD patients, insulin resistance is the most important risk factor for the incidence of T2DM. Appropriate therapy against insulin resistance could be needed for patients with NAFLD to prevent development of T2DM.
Steviol glycosides are not altered during commercial extraction and purification processes
Authors: Oehme Anne , Wüst Matthias , Wölwer‐Rieck Ursula
Published: June 2017

Steviol glycosides, sweet diterpenes extracted from the shrub Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni, are approved as sweeteners in many countries throughout the world. Former heat and pH‐investigations of these glycosides have established their stability. However, due to the complex purification process, the natural authenticity has still been discussed and challenged, recently. Thus, the objective of this work was to show that the steviol glycosides are not chemically modified during the commercial extraction and purification process. Therefore, samples of three independent commercial‐scale extraction and purification batches of steviol glycosides, each batch containing a sample of the untreated stevia leaves, the first water extract and the high‐purity end product, were analysed using HPLC‐UV and HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS. The results show that the commercial powders of extracted steviol glycosides with an estimated purity of more than or equal to 95% contain the same steviol glycosides as the dried stevia leaves and their hot water infusions, demonstrating that steviol glycosides are not affected by the purification process.
Acute myeloid leukaemia relapsing after allogeneic haemopoietic stem cell transplantation: prognostic factors and impact of initial therapy of relapse
Authors: Lim Andrew B. M. , Curley Cameron , Fong Chun Y. , Bilmon Ian , Beligaswatte Ashanka , Purtill Duncan , Getta Bartlomiej , Johnston Anne M. , Armytage Tasman , Collins Marnie , Mason Kate , Fielding Katherine , Greenwood Matthew , Gibson John , Hertzberg Mark , Wright Matthew , Lewis Ian , Moore John , Curtis David , Szer Jeff , Kennedy Glen , Ritchie David
Published: June 2017

Background/Aims

We sought to determine factors associated with the overall survival from relapse (OSR) of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) after allogeneic haemopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) and the effect of first salvage therapy and subsequent graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) on OSR.

Methods

Data on 386 patients from nine Australian centres with relapsed AML post‐alloHSCT were collected retrospectively. OSR was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using the log‐rank test and proportional hazards modelling, respectively and a prognostic index for OSR was derived from multivariate modelling.

Results

On multivariate analysis, relapse within 6 months (hazard ratio (HR) 2.4, P < 0.001) and grade 3–4 acute GVHD preceding relapse (HR 2.0, P = 0.004), were associated with inferior OSR. Patients with 1–2 factors had inferior OSR compared to those with zero factors (all patients: HR 2.3, P < 0.001, patients given salvage: HR 1.8, P < 0.001). The first salvage therapy used post‐relapse was donor cell therapy (DCT) (second alloHSCT or donor lymphocyte infusion) in 75, re‐induction chemotherapy (CT) in 103, radiotherapy in 8 and interferon‐α in 6. Although re‐induction CT death rate was low (2%), survival after CT was inferior to DCT (HR 1.9, P < 0.001). No survival benefit was seen for patients who developed GVHD following salvage therapy (P = 0.405).

Conclusion

Patients with AML who relapse beyond 6 months from alloHSCT without prior grade 3–4 acute GVHD have a better outcome from salvage therapy. Salvage treatments employing DCT as the initial treatment of AML relapse confer a survival advantage over CT.
Signals that drive T follicular helper cell formation
Authors: Webb Louise M. C. , Linterman Michelle A.
Published: June 2017

T follicular helper (Tfh) cells are a distinct type of CD4+ T cell specialized in providing help to B cells during the germinal centre (GC) reaction. As such, they are critical determinants of the quality of an antibody response following antigen challenge. Excessive production of Tfh cells can result in autoimmunity whereas too few can result in inadequate protection from infection. Hence, their differentiation and maintenance must be tightly regulated to ensure appropriate but limited help to B cells. Unlike the majority of other CD4+ T‐cell subsets, Tfh cell differentiation occurs in three phases defined by their anatomical location. During each phase of differentiation the emerging Tfh cells express distinct patterns of co‐receptors, which work together with the T‐cell receptor (TCR) to drive Tfh differentiation. These signals provided by both TCR and co‐receptors during Tfh differentiation alter proliferation, survival, metabolism, cytokine production and transcription factor expression. This review will discuss how engagement of TCR and co‐receptors work together to shape the formation and function of Tfh cells.
Role of localized graphitization on the electrical and magnetic properties of activated carbon
Authors: Govind Raj Kovummal , Joy Pattayil Alias
Published: June 2017

The correlation between the magnetic and electrical properties of activated carbon with its microstructure is studied. The changes in the microstructure of activated carbon, after activation at three different temperatures (800°C, 900°C, 1000°C) using different amounts of the activating agent, KOH (KOH/C ratio of 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 and 4:1), are studied using X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy. The results showed the formation of localized nanographitic domains, along with the changes in the surface area and porosity of the activated carbon. The changes in the microstructure are found to be directly correlated with the magnetic properties and electrical conductivity. The interplay between ordering and disordering parameters in the activated carbon is found to determine the electrical conductivity and magnetic properties.
The UK National Arts Education Archive: Ideas and Imaginings
Authors: Adams Jeff , Bailey Rowan , Walton Neil
Published: June 2017

The National Arts Education Archive (NAEA) is housed and maintained by the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP), and managed by YSP coordinators and educators with a well‐established volunteer programme. This year, 2017, as part of the celebrations of the YSP's 40th anniversary, the Archive will hold its own exhibition entitled Treasures Revealed: a collection of items selected by people who have been involved in the Archive, whether as donors, volunteers, researchers, artists, trustees or steering group members. In parallel with the exhibition, this article aims to give voice to a selection of individuals and groups associated with the Archive, discussing their interests and experiences of it, and their thoughts on its value and importance as a repository of arts education materials, ideals and practices. Our primary motivations were to consider these different voices in relation to the purpose, direction and relevance of the NAEA today. These exchanges raise fundamental questions and debates about what art education is and what it might become, and how these historical collections, and creative engagements with it, might help to shape our contemporary thinking.
Beneficence: Does Agglomeration Matter?
Authors: Forcehimes Andrew T. , Semrau Luke
Published: June 2017

When it comes to the duty of beneficence, a formidable class of moderate positions holds that morally significant considerations emerge when one's actions are seen as part of a larger series. Agglomeration, according to these moderates, limits the demands of beneficence, thereby avoiding the extremely demanding view forcefully defended by Peter Singer. This idea has much appeal. What morality can demand of people is, it seems, appropriately modulated by how much they have already done or will do. Here we examine a number of recent proposals that appeal to agglomeration. None of them, we argue, succeeds.
Epigenetic mechanisms underlying NMDA receptor hypofunction in the prefrontal cortex of juvenile animals in the MAM model for schizophrenia
Authors: Gulchina Yelena , Xu Song‐Jun , Snyder Melissa A. , Elefant Felice , Gao Wen‐Jun
Published: June 2017

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is characterized not only by psychosis, but also by working memory and executive functioning deficiencies, processes that rely on the prefrontal cortex (PFC). Because these cognitive impairments emerge prior to psychosis onset, we investigated synaptic function during development in the neurodevelopmental methylazoxymethanol (MAM) model for SCZ. Specifically, we hypothesize that N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) hypofunction is attributable to reductions in the NR2B subunit through aberrant epigenetic regulation of gene expression, resulting in deficient synaptic physiology and PFC‐dependent cognitive dysfunction, a hallmark of SCZ. Using western blot and whole‐cell patch‐clamp electrophysiology, we found that the levels of synaptic NR2B protein are significantly decreased in juvenile MAM animals, and the function of NMDARs is substantially compromised. Both NMDA‐mEPSCs and synaptic NMDA‐eEPSCs are significantly reduced in prelimbic PFC (plPFC). This protein loss during the juvenile period is correlated with an aberrant increase in enrichment of the epigenetic transcriptional repressor RE1‐silencing transcription factor (REST) and the repressive histone marker H3K27me3 at the Grin2b promoter, as assayed by ChIP‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Glutamate hypofunction has been a prominent hypothesis in the understanding of SCZ pathology; however, little attention has been given to the NMDAR system in the developing PFC in models for SCZ. Our work is the first to confirm that NMDAR hypofunction is a feature of early postnatal development, with epigenetic hyper‐repression of the Grin2b promoter being a contributing factor. The selective loss of NR2B protein and subsequent synaptic dysfunction weakens plPFC function during development and may underlie early cognitive impairments in SCZ models and patients.

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Read the Editorial Highlight for this article on page 264.
Aggregate personality and organizational competitive advantage
Authors: Schneider Benjamin , Bartram Dave
Published: June 2017

Based on attraction–selection–attrition theory, human capital resources theory, person‐organization fit theory and organizational climate/culture strength theory we hypothesize that (1) Big 5 aggregate conscientiousness, emotional stability and agreeableness will be significantly related to organizational financial performance (only conscientiousness is significant), (2) that interaction effects of Big 5 means and SDs will be reflected in organizational financial performance (not supported), and (3) that Big 5 strength (variance) alone is a significant correlate of organizational financial performance (supported for all but extraversion). In addition, an aggregate of strength across the Big 5 facets is also a significant correlate of organizational financial performance. Limitations and implications of these findings for future research on aggregate personality and practice are discussed.

Practitioner points

Selection on the basis of conscientiousness will yield not only effective individual performance but may also be reflected in organizational financial performance as well.

Firms should be attentive to the variance in the attributes of those hired because smaller aggregate variance on all but extraversion Big 5 attributes is significantly reflected in organizational financial performance.
Stigma Identity Concealment in Hybrid Organizational Cultures
Authors: Lyons Brent J. , Zatzick Christopher D. , Thompson Tracy , Bushe Gervase R.
Published: June 2017

Previous stigma identity management theory has considered organizational cultural pressures as unitary in either supporting or discouraging open identity expression, leading individuals to either disclose or conceal their identities, respectively. However, within many organizations are cultures with opposing demands for how individuals should express their stigmatized identities. We integrate theory on stigma identity management and institutional logics to develop expectations about how individuals with stigmatized identities manage their identities in organizational cultures with opposing demands for identity expression, namely, organizational cultures that are informed by both supportive and unsupportive logics. We consider how configurations of supportiveness–unsupportiveness, along dimensions of logic centrality and logic compatibility, affect stigma holders’ identity management choices and their well‐being and job performance. We argue that the consequences of affirming (e.g., disclosure) and distancing (e.g., concealing) identity management strategies vary depending on whether stigma holders comply with or resist against these hybrid configurations.
Autonomy Support Fosters Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Identity Disclosure and Wellness, Especially for Those with Internalized Homophobia
Authors: Ryan William S. , Legate Nicole , Weinstein Netta , Rahman Qazi
Published: June 2017

Lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals experience disparities in psychological well‐being, including greater symptoms of depression and anxiety, relative to their heterosexual peers. One group of LGB individuals is particularly vulnerable—those with high levels of internalized homophobia, or sexual prejudice directed toward the self. The current research explored whether a supportive social environment might be especially beneficial for this group. Specifically, we tested whether autonomy support within a given social environment (e.g., with family, friends, and peers or coworkers) is associated with greater identity disclosure and well‐being in that environment, especially for those high in internalized homophobia. Using within‐person analyses, we found support for this: perceptions of autonomy support predicted greater disclosure (outness) and well‐being, and this relation was particularly strong for those high in internalized homophobia. Implications of these findings for promoting well‐being among LGB individuals, a critical social issue, are discussed.
Identity Concealment and Social Change: Balancing Advocacy Goals Against Individual Needs
Authors: Pasek Michael H. , Filip‐Crawford Gabrielle , Cook Jonathan E.
Published: June 2017

We consider the conflicting multilevel forces around concealment and disclosure that may weigh on individuals as they navigate life with a concealable stigmatized identity. In particular, we explore a tension that can arise between immediate personal motivations to conceal and the potential for disclosure to increase the visibility of a stigmatized group and normalize it, thus helping to change social attitudes and reduce structural stigma. We argue that personal benefits of disclosure are moderated by individual differences and situational characteristics. This suggests that a one‐size‐fits‐all approach that focuses exclusively or primarily on the benefits of disclosure can be problematic. We thus recommend that any intervention campaign that seeks to encourage disclosure should balance social advocacy goals with individual needs. We conclude with a discussion of possible intervention strategies that could be used to (1) help individuals manage the disclosure process and (2) help create more favorable organizational and civic climates where concealment is less necessary.
Pathogenicity and repulsion for toxin‐producing bacteria of dominant bacteria on the surface of American pine wood nematodes
Authors: Liu Kan‐Cheng , Zeng Fei‐Li , Ben Ai‐Ling , Han Zheng‐Min
Published: June 2017

Bacteria were isolated from the surface of two samples of American pine wood nematodes to identify methods of controlling pine wilt disease. The dominant bacterial strains were identified, and their toxicity and pathogenicity, in addition to their competitiveness with other pathogenic bacteria, were measured to ascertain how bacteria on the surface of American pine wood nematodes might be used to prevent and control pine wilt disease. The bacterial isolates show that the dominant bacteria carried by the two samples of pine wood nematodes are US4, US5, Smal‐007 and Rrad‐006. Based on routine staining, morphological observation and 16S rDNA sequence analysis, the four strains were identified as Delftia lacustris, Pseudomonas putida, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Rhizobium nepotum. The incubation of four dominant bacterial strains and Chinese dominant bacterial strains on the surface of aseptic nematodes and in nutrient broth showed that Smal‐007 and Rrad‐006 have strong competitiveness on the surface of pine wood nematodes. Using a bacterial culture medium to measure the propensity of pine seedlings to wilt, all the American dominant bacterial strains were shown to be less toxic than the Chinese dominant strains. If pine seedlings are inoculated with both bacterial and aseptic pine wood nematodes, American dominant bacterial strains present less pathogenicity than the Chinese dominant bacterial strains. In particular, Smal‐007 and Rrad‐006 show the lowest pathogenicity. If pine seedlings are inoculated with both bacterial and wild pine wood nematodes, American dominant bacterial strains significantly reduce the pathogenicity of wild pine wood nematodes isolated from Zhejiang Province, China. The effects of Smal‐007 and Rrad‐006 are confirmed as the most prominent. The American dominant strains Smal‐007 and Rrad‐006 satisfy two main requirements: excellent repulsion performance and low pathogenicity. Therefore, they can be used as candidate strains for biocontrol bacteria.
Glycaemic and insulinaemic responses of adult healthy warm‐blooded mares following feeding with Jerusalem artichoke meal
Authors: Glatter M. , Bochnia M. , Goetz F. , Gottschalk J. , Koeller G. , Mielenz N. , Hillegeist D. , Greef J. M. , Einspanier A. , Zeyner A.
Published: June 2017

This study aimed to investigate the impact of the supplementation of a pre‐biotic compound [Jerusalem artichoke meal (JAM)] on the glycaemic and insulinaemic response in healthy, non‐obese warm‐blooded horses. Six adult mares [mean body weight (bwt) 529 ± 38.7 kg; body condition score 5.1 ± 0.49/9] were used. In two equal meals per day, the horses received crushed oat grains (1 g starch/kg bwt per day) and meadow hay (2 kg/100 kg bwt per day) which together were likely to meet the energy recommendation for light work (GfE,). Additionally, they received either 0.15 g fructo‐oligosaccharides and inulin (FOS+INU)/kg bwt per day via commercial JAM or maize cob meal without grains as control (CON) in 2 × 3‐week periods according to a crossover design. Blood was collected on d21 of the feeding period at different ante‐ and postprandial (PP) time points (−60, 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 300 min), and the plasma glucose and serum insulin levels were determined. FeedingJAMvs.CONdid not change thePPpeak of glucose or insulin (glucose: 6.3 ± 0.40 vs. 7.0 ± 0.87 mmol/l; insulin: 0.508 ± 0.087 vs. 0.476 ± 0.082 nmol/l) nor did it cause differentAUCs until 120 and 300 minPPfor glucose and insulin, respectively (AUC120, glucose: 997 ± 41.6 vs. 1015 ± 41.63 mmol/l per minute, insulin: 49 ± 6.3 vs. 42 ± 6.3 nmol/l per minute;AUC300, glucose: 1943 ± 142.3 vs. 2115 ± 142.3 mmol/l per minute, insulin: 94 ± 14.8 vs. 106 ± 14.8 nmol/l per minute; p > 0.05). FollowingJAMvs.CONfeeding, glucose and insulin levels declined more rapidly until 240 minPPand tended to be lower (p = 0.053 and p = 0.056, respectively) at this time point. This result might be promising and should further be studied more detailed.
Vitamin D metabolism in growing pigs: influence of UVB irradiation and dietary vitamin D supply on calcium homeostasis, its regulation and bone metabolism
Authors: Kolp E. , Wilkens M. R. , Pendl W. , Eichenberger B. , Liesegang A.
Published: June 2017

The aim of this study was to prove whether pigs are able to synthesize vitamin D (vitD) in the skin and to investigate the influence of ultraviolet irradiation (UVB) on vitD status and calcium (Ca) homeostasis of growing pigs. Thirty‐two 11‐week‐old pigs were kept without access to sunlight and divided into four groups receiving the following treatment in a 2 × 2 factorial design: (i) UVB irradiation or not and (ii) vitD in feed or not. Blood, urine and faeces were sampled every third week. In serum, vitD metabolites, Ca, phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg) and bone markers were analysed. Digestibility of Ca, P and Mg as well as urinary excretion of these minerals was analysed. After 14 weeks, the animals were slaughtered, and samples of skin, intestines, kidneys and bones (metatarsus) were taken for further analyses: sterols of vitD synthesis in the skin, Ca flux rates in the intestines, expression of genes involved in Ca transport in the intestines and kidneys, bone mineral density (BMD) with the aid of peripheral quantitative computer tomography and bone mineral content by ashing the metatarsus. Irradiated animals showed higher levels of 7‐dehydrocholesterol and tachysterol in the skin, higher levels of 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol and 1,25‐dihydroxycholecalciferol in the serum and higher Ca net flux rates were determined in Ussing chambers. In contrast, the expression of genes involved in Ca transport in the intestines and kidneys was not altered. Similarly, the digestibility of Ca and P as well as the urinary excretion was not affected. With respect to the metatarsus, no differences in mineral contents and BMD were found between groups. At the end of the study, some subclinical signs of beginning vitD ‘insufficiency’ were observed in the group without access to vitD (represented by higher expression of 1α‐hydroxylase in the kidney and increased parathyroid hormone in serum).
Recovery of insulin sensitivity and optimal body composition after rapid weight loss in obese dogs fed a high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet
Authors: André A. , Leriche I. , Chaix G. , Thorin C. , Burger M. , Nguyen P.
Published: June 2017

This study investigated the effects of an experimental high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet (protein level, 46% metabolizable energy, ME). First, postprandial plasma glucose and insulin kinetics were determined in steady‐state overweight/obese Beagle dogs (28%–41% excess body weight) for an experimental high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet (protein level, 46% ME) and a commercial high‐carbohydrate medium‐protein diet (protein level, 24%ME) in obese dogs. Secondly, all the dogs were included in a weight loss programme. They were fed the high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet, and the energy allocation was gradually reduced until they reached their optimal body weight. Insulin sensitivity and body composition were evaluated before and after weight loss using a euglycaemic–hyperinsulinaemic clamp and the deuterium oxide dilution technique respectively. For statistical analysis, linear mixed effect models were used with a significance level of 5%. Postprandial plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were substantially lower with the high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet than the high‐carbohydrate medium‐protein diet. These differences can be explained mainly by the difference in carbohydrate content between the two diets. Energy restriction (35% lower energy intake than in the obese state) resulted in a 2.23 ± 0.05% loss in body weight/week, and the dogs reached their optimal body weight in 12–16 weeks. Weight loss was associated with a significant increase in insulin sensitivity. The high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet allowed fat‐free mass preservation despite a relatively high rate of weekly weight loss. The increase in insulin sensitivity indicated improved control of carbohydrate metabolism, possible due to weight loss and to the nature of the diet. Thus, a high‐protein medium‐carbohydrate diet is a good nutritional solution for managing the weight of overweight dogs. This diet may improve glycaemic control, which could be beneficial for preventing or managing impaired glucose tolerance in obese dogs and for safe and successful weight loss while preserving lean body mass.
Evaluation of Serum 3‐Bromotyrosine Concentrations in Dogs with Steroid‐Responsive Diarrhea and Food‐Responsive Diarrhea
Authors: Sattasathuchana P. , Allenspach K. , Lopes R. , Suchodolski J.S. , Steiner J.M.
Published: June 2017

Background

The clinical usefulness of serum 3‐BrY concentrations for subclassifying dogs with food‐responsive diarrhea (FRD) and steroid‐responsive diarrhea (SRD) has not been studied.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To compare serum 3‐BrY concentrations in dogs withFRD, dogs withSRD, and healthy control dogs.

Animals

38 dogs withFRD, 14 dogs withSRD, and 46 healthy dogs.

Methods

Prospective study. Measurement of 3‐BrY concentration in serum samples was performed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

Results

There was no association of peripheral eosinophilia in dogs withFRD,SRD, and healthy control dogs (P= 0.069). There was no significant correlation between peripheral eosinophil counts and serum 3‐BrY concentrations (ρ = −0.15,P= 0.13). Serum 3‐BrY concentrations in dogs withSRD(median [range] = 3.27, 0.9–26.23 μmol/L) were significantly higher than in dogs withFRD(median [range] = 0.99, 0.62–8.82 μmol/L;P= 0.007) or in healthy dogs (median [range] = 0.62, 0.62–1.79 μmol/L;P< 0.001). Also, serum 3‐BrY concentrations in dogs withFRDwere significantly higher than in healthy dogs (P= 0.025). There was no significant correlation between the canine chronic enteropathy clinical activity index and serum 3‐BrY concentrations (ρ = 0.17,P= 0.23).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Measurement of serum 3‐BrY concentrations, but not the peripheral eosinophil count, is helpful for detecting dogs withSRDandFRD.
Role of parasite transmission in promoting inbreeding: II. Pedigree reconstruction reveals sib‐transmission and consequent kin‐mating
Authors: Detwiler Jillian T. , Criscione Charles D.
Published: June 2017

Even though parasitic flatworms are one of the most species‐rich groups of hermaphroditic organisms, we know virtually nothing of their mating systems (selfing or kin‐mating rates) in nature. Hence, we lack an understanding of the role of inbreeding in parasite evolution. The natural mating systems of parasitic flatworms have remained elusive due to the inherent difficulty in generating progeny‐array data in many parasite systems. New developments in pedigree reconstruction allow direct inference of realized selfing rates in nature by simply using a sample of genotyped individuals. We built upon this advancement by utilizing the closed mating systems, that is, individual hosts, of endoparasites. In particular, we created a novel means to use pedigree reconstruction data to estimate potential kin‐mating rates. With data from natural populations of a tapeworm, we demonstrated how our newly developed methods can be used to test for cosibling transmission and inbreeding depression. We then showed how independent estimates of the two mating system components, selfing and kin‐mating rates, account for the observed levels of inbreeding in the populations. Thus, our results suggest that these natural parasite populations are in inbreeding equilibrium. Pedigree reconstruction analyses along with the new companion methods we developed will be broadly applicable across a myriad of parasite species. As such, we foresee that a new frontier will emerge wherein the diverse life histories of flatworm parasites could be utilized in comparative evolutionary studies to broadly address ecological factors or life history traits that drive mating systems and hence inbreeding in natural populations.
Contrasting gene expression programs correspond with predator‐induced phenotypic plasticity within and across generations in Daphnia
Authors: Hales Nicole R. , Schield Drew R. , Andrew Audra L. , Card Daren C. , Walsh Matthew R. , Castoe Todd A.
Published: June 2017

Research has shown that a change in environmental conditions can alter the expression of traits during development (i.e., “within‐generation phenotypic plasticity”) as well as induce heritable phenotypic responses that persist for multiple generations (i.e., “transgenerational plasticity”, TGP). It has long been assumed that shifts in gene expression are tightly linked to observed trait responses at the phenotypic level. Yet, the manner in which organisms couple within‐ and TGP at the molecular level is unclear. Here we tested the influence of fish predator chemical cues on patterns of gene expression within‐ and across generations using a clone of Daphnia ambigua that is known to exhibit strong TGP but weak within‐generation plasticity. Daphnia were reared in the presence of predator cues in generation 1, and shifts in gene expression were tracked across two additional asexual experimental generations that lacked exposure to predator cues. Initial exposure to predator cues in generation 1 was linked to ~50 responsive genes, but such shifts were 3–4× larger in later generations. Differentially expressed genes included those involved in reproduction, exoskeleton structure and digestion; major shifts in expression of genes encoding ribosomal proteins were also identified. Furthermore, shifts within the first‐generation and transgenerational shifts in gene expression were largely distinct in terms of the genes that were differentially expressed. Such results argue that the gene expression programmes involved in within‐ vs. transgeneration plasticity are fundamentally different. Our study provides new key insights into the plasticity of gene expression and how it relates to phenotypic plasticity in nature.
The hypertension of hemophilia is associated with vascular remodeling in the joint
Authors: Barnes Richard F. W. , Cramer Thomas J. , Hughes Tudor H. , von Drygalski Annette
Published: June 2017

Objective

Hemophilic arthropathy is associated with pronounced vascular joint remodeling. Also, compared to the general population, PWH have a higher prevalence of hypertension not explained by usual risk factors. As vascular remodeling in various vascular beds is a hallmark of hypertension, we hypothesized that vascular joint remodeling is associated with elevated blood pressures and hypertension.

Methods

Elbows, knees, and ankles of 28 adult PWH were evaluated for vascular abnormalities with MSKUS/PD, as well as for radiographic and clinical status and pain. Logistic and linear regression models were fitted to examine associations between hypertension, blood pressure, and PD score.

Results

The extent of vascular abnormalities was associated with hypertension and blood pressures. Hypertensive patients had a higher PD score compared to nonhypertensive patients, and the risk of hypertension increased steeply with PD score. SBP was also strongly associated with PD score, while DBP was only weakly associated.

Conclusions

Vascular remodeling in hemophilic joints is associated with hypertension and elevated blood pressures. As hypertension is a grave risk factor for intracranial hemorrhage, a prominent cause of mortality in hemophilia patients, future studies are needed to address the causal pathways between vascular joint remodeling and blood pressure.
Examining metrics and magnitudes of molecular genetic differentiation used to delimit cetacean subspecies based on mitochondrial DNA control region sequences
Authors: Rosel Patricia E. , Hancock‐hanser Brittany L. , Archer Frederick I. , Robertson Kelly M. , Martien Karen K. , Leslie Matthew S. , Berta Annalisa , Cipriano Frank , Viricel Amelia , Viaud‐Martinez Karine A. , Taylor Barbara L.
Published: June 2017

Cetacean taxonomy continues to be in flux and molecular genetic analyses examining alpha taxonomy in cetaceans have relied heavily on the mitochondrial DNA control region. However, there has been little consistency across studies; a variety of metrics and levels of divergence have been invoked when delimiting new cetacean species and subspecies. Using control region sequences, we explored, across pairs of well‐recognized cetacean populations, subspecies, and species, a suite of metrics measuring molecular genetic differentiation to examine which metrics best categorize these taxonomic units. Nei's estimate of net divergence (dA) and percent diagnosability performed best. All but a single, recently diverged species were unambiguously identified using these metrics. Many subspecies were found at intermediate values as expected, allowing separation from both populations and species, but several had levels of divergence equivalent to populations, resulting in underclassification errors using this single marker. Coupling dA with additional measures, such as percent diagnosability, examining appropriate nuclear genetic markers, and interpreting results in a broader biological context will improve taxonomic investigations in cetaceans.
Modulation of epithelial cell polarity by bacterial pathogens
Authors: Tapia Rocio , Kralicek Sarah E. , Hecht Gail A.
Published: June 2017

Epithelial cells constitute a physical barrier that aids in protecting the host from microbial pathogens. Polarized epithelial cells contain distinct apical and basolateral membrane domains separated by intercellular junctions, including tight junctions (TJs), which contribute to the maintenance of apical–basal polarity. Polarity complexes also contribute to the establishment of TJ formation. Several pathogens perturb epithelial TJ barrier function and structure in addition to causing a loss of apical–basal polarity. Here, we review the impact of pathogenic bacteria on the disruption of cell–cell junctions and epithelial polarity.
Direct Estimation of Equivalence Scales and More Evidence on Independence of Base
Authors: Biewen Martin , Juhasz Andos
Published: June 2017

We explore a direct approach to estimating household equivalence scales from income satisfaction data. Our method differs from previous approaches to using satisfaction data for this purpose in that it can be used to directly fit and evaluate closed‐form and non‐parametric equivalence scales of any desired form. Its flexibility makes it easy to consider specific aspects such as income dependence or more specific information on household composition (such as whether household members live in a partner relationship). We estimate and evaluate a number of scales used in the literature. If the equivalence scale is assumed to be independent of income and to depend only on household size, we do not reject the validity of the widely used square‐root scale at conventional significance levels. We also test GESE and GAESE restrictions (Donaldson and Pendakur, 2003, 2006) and investigate in detail to what extent household economies of scale depend on income. Our results suggest that the income dependence differs fundamentally across household types (rising economies of scale for ‘family’ households, falling economies of scale for multi‐adult households without children and no income dependence for other households).
Can atrophic‐erosive oral lichen planus promote cardiovascular diseases? A population‐based study
Authors: Conrotto D , Barattero R , Carbone M , Gambino A , Sciannameo V , Ricceri F , Conrotto F , Broccoletti R , Arduino P‐G
Published: June 2017

Objective

Lichen planus has been recently associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). The oral manifestations can be divided into white hyperkeratotic lesions (WL) and atrophic and erosive lesions (RL). The aim of this report was to compare the presence of CVDs between patients affected by WL or RL, to test the hypothesis that RL are associated with an increased incidence of CVDs.

Subjects and methods

Patients were analysed through a complete collection of all the risk factors for CVDs. The primary endpoint was the occurrence of a cardiovascular event—acute coronary syndrome (ACS), any revascularization or stroke/TIA. A multivariable logistic regression model, adjusted for age at diagnosis, body mass index, smoking, alcohol consumption, diabetes, hypertension, CVDs familiarity and periodontitis, was performed.

Results

A prospective cohort of 307 patients has been evaluated; 185 (60.3%) had WL and 122 RL (39.7%). Twenty‐four patients had a CVD. ACS occurred more frequently in RL (adjusted odds ratio 5.83; 95% CI: 1.16—29.39), mainly due to the higher risk of it after the histological diagnosis of Oral lichen planus OLP (odds ratio 4.23; 95% CI: 0.66—27.23).

Conclusion

Patients with RL could possibly have a higher risk of developing ACS. Further analysis on larger cohort is however warranted.
Transcriptomic analysis of rice aleurone cells identified a novel abscisic acid response element
Authors: Watanabe Kenneth A. , Homayouni Arielle , Gu Lingkun , Huang Kuan‐Ying , Ho Tuan‐Hua David , Shen Qingxi J.
Published: June 2017

Seeds serve as a great model to study plant responses to drought stress, which is largely mediated by abscisic acid (ABA). The ABA responsive element (ABRE) is a key cis‐regulatory element in ABA signalling. However, its consensus sequence (ACGTG(G/T)C) is present in the promoters of only about 40% of ABA‐induced genes in rice aleurone cells, suggesting other ABREs may exist. To identify novel ABREs, RNA sequencing was performed on aleurone cells of rice seeds treated with 20 μM ABA. Gibbs sampling was used to identify enriched elements, and particle bombardment‐mediated transient expression studies were performed to verify the function. Gene ontology analysis was performed to predict the roles of genes containing the novel ABREs. This study revealed 2443 ABA‐inducible genes and a novel ABRE, designated as ABREN, which was experimentally verified to mediate ABA signalling in rice aleurone cells. Many of the ABREN‐containing genes are predicted to be involved in stress responses and transcription. Analysis of other species suggests that the ABREN may be monocot specific. This study also revealed interesting expression patterns of genes involved in ABA metabolism and signalling. Collectively, this study advanced our understanding of diverse cis‐regulatory sequences and the transcriptomes underlying ABA responses in rice aleurone cells.
Prevalence of sleep problems in Japanese preschoolers in a medium‐sized city: Community‐based survey using the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire
Authors: Takahashi Michio , Adachi Masaki , Yasuda Sayura , Osato‐Kaneda Ayako , Saito Manabu , Kuribayashi Michito , Nakamura Kazuhiko
Published: June 2017

Although the mean score of the Children's Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ) differs between countries, there are no normative data for the CSHQ of Japanese preschoolers based on a community sample. The aims of this study were therefore to present normative data for the CSHQ and determine the prevalence and characteristics of sleep problems in Japanese preschoolers. Parents or the primary caregiver of 482 preschoolers aged 4–5 years completed the CSHQ and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire. Approximately 80% of preschoolers scored above the cut‐off for sleep disturbance on the CSHQ. In addition, co‐sleeping was prevalent in Japanese preschoolers but the habit of co‐sleeping contributed little to behavioral and emotional problems. Sleep problems appear to be prevalent in Japanese preschoolers based on the CSHQ, and could be associated with the Japanese sleep habit of co‐sleeping.
Unique clinical conditions associated with different acinar regions of fibrosis in long‐term surviving pediatric liver grafts
Authors: Baas Marjolein , Gouw Annette S. H. , van den Heuvel Marius C. , Hepkema Bouke G. , Peeters Paul M. G. J. , Verkade HenkJan , Scheenstra René
Published: June 2017

In the majority of long‐term survivors after PLTx, graft fibrosis has been identified. Recently, subtypes of graft fibrosis have been described based on their predominant acinar localization. We aimed to evaluate whether the development of portal, perisinusoidal, and centrilobular distribution of graft fibrosis is related to patient or transplantation‐related parameters. We reviewed the histological features in protocol liver biopsies taken at 1 and 5 years after PLTx of 47 children on a tacrolimus‐based immunosuppressive regimen. Fibrosis was assessed according to the LAFSc. The prevalence of portal fibrosis increased from 31% to 62%, sinusoidal from 68% to 79%, and centrilobular from 76% to 85%. The presence of portal fibrosis was associated with total bilirubin and γGT levels (each P<.02) and tended to be associated with biliary complications (P=.06). Sinusoidal fibrosis was associated with prior rejection episodes (P<.02) and centrilobular fibrosis with the presence of HLA mismatches (P=.02). In conclusion, using the LAFSc, we found a high incidence of progressive fibrosis in the 1‐year and 5‐year protocol biopsies after PLTx. Progression of fibrosis was observed in all acinar compartments, and each of the three locations is associated with different clinical conditions.
Successful liver transplantation for non‐resectable desmoplastic nested spindle cell tumor complicated by Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Tehseen Sarah , Rapkin Louis , Schemankewitz Erwin , Magliocca Joseph F. , Romero Rene
Published: June 2017

Desmoplastic spindle cell tumors of liver are rare tumors of low malignant potential characterized by well‐demarcated nests of spindle and epithelioid cells in a dense desmoplastic stroma. While surgery remains the definitive treatment, there have been reports of tumor recurrence locally and metastasis which respond poorly to chemotherapy. Hepatic transplant has been attempted in cases of recurrence or large size of primary tumor. Long‐term follow‐up and imaging surveillance are required as these tumors have shown a tendency for recurrence many years after initial therapy.
Reproductive phenology of Melastomataceae species with contrasting reproductive systems: contemporary and historical drivers
Authors: Brito V. L. G. , Maia F.R. , Silveira F. A. O. , Fracasso C. M. , Lemos‐Filho J. P. , Fernandes G. W. , Goldenberg R. , Morellato L. P. C. , Sazima M. , Staggemeier V. G.
Published: June 2017

Flowering and fruiting are key events in the life history of plants, and both are critical to their reproductive success. Besides the role of evolutionary history, plant reproductive phenology is regulated by abiotic factors and shaped by biotic interactions with pollinators and seed dispersers. In Melastomataceae, a dominant Neotropical family, the reproductive systems vary from allogamous with biotic pollination to apomictic, and seed dispersal varies from dry (self‐dispersed) to fleshy (animal‐dispersed) fruits. Such variety in reproductive strategies is likely to affect flowering and fruiting phenologies.

In this study, we described the reproductive phenology of 81 Melastomataceae species occurring in two biodiversity hotspots: the Atlantic rain forest and the campo rupestre. We aim to disentangle the role of abiotic and biotic factors defining flowering and fruiting times of Melastomataceae species, considering the contrasting breeding and seed dispersal systems, and their evolutionary history.

In both vegetation types, pollinator‐dependent species had higher flowering seasonality than pollinator‐independent ones. Flowering patterns presented phylogenetic signal regardless of vegetation type. Fruiting of fleshy‐fruited species was seasonal in campo rupestre but not in Atlantic rain forest; the fruiting of dry‐fruited species was also not seasonal in both vegetation types. Fruiting showed a low phylogenetic signal, probably because the influence of environment and dispersal agents on fruiting time is stronger than the phylogenetic affinity.

Considering these ecophylogenetic patterns, our results indicate that flowering may be shaped by the different reproductive strategies of Melastomataceae lineages, while fruiting patterns may be governed mainly by the seed dispersal strategy and flowering time, with less phylogenetic influence.