bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peutz‐Jegher Syndrome in Childhood
Authors: Goldstein Stephanie A. , Hoffenberg Edward J.
Published: January 2013

Background and Aims:

We reviewed our institution's experience with Peutz‐Jegher syndrome (PJS) in children to determine whether current recommendations on timing of screening and follow‐up should be modified.

Methods:

We reviewed the charts of all of the children with a diagnosis of PJS at our institution from 2000 to 2011 abstracting data on intussusceptions events, polyp characteristics, Sertoli cell (SC) tumors, family history, imaging, and interventions.

Results:

Of 14 children identified, 10 were boys. Median age at first clinical evaluation was 4.5 years, and family history and/or mucocutaneous pigmentation were the 2 most common factors stimulating screening. Median age at first screening test was 5 years (range 1–16), and at first polyp identification, 5 years (range 1 to 18). There were 7 intussusception events in 5 children, with median age of 10 and range 5 to 16 for first event. Two boys had SC tumors at 8 and 11 years. Polyps were identified during initial screening in 9 of 14 patients. Polyps were found in the stomach or duodenum in 5 (36%), small bowel in 7, (50%) and colon in 3 (21%) children. Large polyps were identified in 9 children at median age of 7 years.

Conclusions:

Polyps causing significant clinical consequences can occur frequently in children with PJS younger than 8 years. Revised guidelines should consider initial screening at age 4 to 5 with capsule endoscopy and upper and lower endoscopy as well as evaluation for SC tumors and re‐evaluation whenever symptoms suggest polyp‐associated complications.
Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease in Children Younger Than 2 Years
Authors: Mišak Zrinjka , Hojsak Iva , Jadrešin Oleg , Kekez Alemka Jaklin , Abdović Slaven , Kolaček Sanja
Published: January 2013

Background and Aim:

To diagnose coeliac disease (CD) in children younger than 2 years, the old ESPGHAN criteria based on 3 small bowel biopsies were recommended until recently. The aim of the present study was to investigate the applicability of only 1 small intestinal biopsy plus positive serology for the diagnosis of CD in children younger than 2 years.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study included 81 patients younger than 2 years with symptoms suggestive of CD, who all completed the diagnostic procedure based on 3 small bowel biopsies. According to the finding of the third biopsy, patients were divided into group A—CD confirmed (N = 44), and group B—CD not confirmed, after the gluten challenge (N = 37).

Results:

At the time of the first biopsy, total villous atrophy (Marsh IIIc) was found more often in group A than in group B (77% vs 27%, P < 0.01). Also, all of the studied antibodies were more frequently positive in group A than in group B (P < 0.01 for all of the tested antibodies). Positive anti‐endomysial antibodies and Marsh IIIc finding were the best discriminators between the group A and the group B and considerably contributed to the prediction of CD.

Conclusions:

The second and the third biopsies (before and after the gluten challenge) may also be avoided when diagnosing CD in children younger than 2 years provided that the child, at the time of presentation, has positive anti‐endomysial antibodies and Marsh IIIc on the small bowel biopsy. A gluten challenge should be still considered in all other children younger than 2 years.
Pre- and post-natal stress have opposing effects on social information use
Authors: Boogert Neeltje J. , Zimmer Cedric , Spencer Karen A.
Published: January 2013

Theoretical models of social learning predict that animals should copy others in variable environments where resource availability is relatively unpredictable. Although short-term exposure to unpredictable conditions in adulthood has been shown to encourage social learning, virtually nothing is known concerning whether and how developmental conditions affect social information use. Unpredictable food availability increases levels of the stress hormone corticosterone (CORT). In birds, CORT can be transferred from the mother to her eggs, and have downstream behavioural effects. We tested how pre-natal CORT elevation through egg injection, and chick post-natal development in unpredictable food conditions, affected social information use in adult Japanese quail (
Coturnix japonica
). Pre-natal CORT exposure encouraged quail to copy the foraging decisions of demonstrators in video playbacks, whereas post-natal food unpredictability led individuals to avoid the demonstrated food source. An individual's exposure to stress and uncertainty during development can thus affect its use of social foraging information in adulthood. However, the stressor's nature and developmental timing determine whether an adult will tend to copy conspecifics or do the opposite. Developmental effects on social information use might thus help explain individual differences in social foraging tactics and leadership.
Is the continental life of the European eel
Anguilla anguilla
affected by the parasitic invader
Anguillicoloides crassus
?
Authors: Lefebvre François , Fazio Géraldine , Mounaix Béatrice , Crivelli Alain J.
Published: January 2013

Quantifying the fitness cost that parasites impose on wild hosts is a challenging task, because the epidemiological history of field-sampled hosts is often unknown. In this study, we used an internal marker of the parasite pressure on individual hosts to evaluate the costs of parasitism with respect to host body condition, size increase and reproductive potential of field-collected animals for which we also determined individual age. In our investigated system, the European eel
Anguilla anguilla
and the parasitic invader
Anguillicoloides crassus
, high virulence and severe impacts are expected because the host lacks an adaptive immune response. We demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between the severity of damage to the affected organ (i.e. the swimbladder, our internal marker) and parasite abundance and biomass, thus showing that the use of classical epidemiological parameters was not relevant here. Surprisingly, we found that the most severely affected eels (with damaged swimbladder) had greater body length and mass (+11% and +41%, respectively), than unaffected eels of same age. We discuss mechanisms that could explain this finding and other counterintuitive results in this host–parasite system, and highlight the likely importance of host panmixia in generating great inter-individual variability in growth potential and infection risk. Under that scenario, the most active foragers would not only have the greatest size increase, but also the highest probability of becoming repeatedly infected—via trophic parasite transmission—during their continental life.
Something Darwin didn't know about barnacles: spermcast mating in a common stalked species
Authors: Barazandeh Marjan , Davis Corey S. , Neufeld Christopher J. , Coltman David W. , Palmer A. Richard
Published: January 2013

Most free-living barnacles are hermaphroditic, and eggs are presumed to be fertilized either by pseudo-copulation or self-fertilization. Although the common northeast Pacific intertidal gooseneck barnacle,
Pollicipes polymerus
, is believed only to cross-fertilize, some isolated individuals well outside penis range nonetheless bear fertilized eggs. They must therefore either self-fertilize or—contrary to all prior expectations about barnacle mating—obtain sperm from the water. To test these alternative hypotheses, we collected isolated individuals bearing egg masses, as well as isolated pairs where at least one parent carried egg masses. Using 16 single nucleotide polymorphism markers, we confirmed that a high percentage of eggs were fertilized with sperm captured from the water. Sperm capture occurred in 100 per cent of isolated individuals and, remarkably, even in 24 per cent of individuals that had an adjacent partner. Replicate subsamples of individual egg masses confirmed that eggs fertilized by captured sperm occurred throughout the egg mass. Sperm capture may therefore be a common supplement to pseudo-copulation in this species. These observations (i) overturn over a century of beliefs about what barnacles can (or cannot) do in terms of sperm transfer, (ii) raise doubts about prior claims of self-fertilization in barnacles, (iii) raise interesting questions about the capacity for sperm capture in other species (particularly those with short penises), and (iv) show, we believe for the first time, that spermcast mating can occur in an aquatic arthropod.
Loss of RBF1 changes glutamine catabolism
Authors: Nicolay Brandon N. , Gameiro Paulo A. , Tschöp Katrin , Korenjak Michael , Heilmann Andreas M. , Asara John M. , Stephanopoulos Gregory , Iliopoulos Othon , Dyson Nicholas J.
Published: January 2013

Inactivation of the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (pRB) alters the expression of a myriad of genes. To understand the altered cellular environment that these changes create, we took advantage of the Drosophila model system and used targeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to profile the metabolic changes that occur when RBF1, the fly ortholog of pRB, is removed. We show that RBF1-depleted tissues and larvae are sensitive to fasting. Depletion of RBF1 causes major changes in nucleotide synthesis and glutathione metabolism. Under fasting conditions, these changes interconnect, and the increased replication demand of RBF1-depleted larvae is associated with the depletion of glutathione pools. In vivo 13C isotopic tracer analysis shows that RBF1-depleted larvae increase the flux of glutamine toward glutathione synthesis, presumably to minimize oxidative stress. Concordantly, H2O2 preferentially promoted apoptosis in RBF1-depleted tissues, and the sensitivity of RBF1-depleted animals to fasting was specifically suppressed by either a glutamine supplement or the antioxidant N-acetyl-cysteine. Effects of pRB activation/inactivation on glutamine catabolism were also detected in human cell lines. These results show that the inactivation of RB proteins causes metabolic reprogramming and that these consequences of RBF/RB function are present in both flies and human cell lines.
Homologous recombination as a mechanism to recognize repetitive DNA sequences in an RNAi pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Chang Shwu-Shin , Zhang Zhenying , Xue Zhihong , Zhang Hanxing , Li Shaojie , Liu Yi
Published: January 2013

Quelling is an RNAi-related phenomenon that post-transcriptionally silences repetitive DNA and transposons in Neurospora. We previously identified a type of DNA damage-induced small RNA called qiRNA that originates from ribosomal DNA. To understand how small RNAs are generated from repetitive DNA, we carried out a genetic screen to identify genes required for qiRNA biogenesis. Factors directly involved in homologous recombination (HR) and chromatin remodeling factors required for HR are essential for qiRNA production. HR is also required for quelling, and quelling is also the result of DNA damage, indicating that quelling and qiRNA production share a common mechanism. Together, our results suggest that DNA damage-triggered HR-based recombination allows the RNAi pathway to recognize repetitive DNA to produce small RNA.
High-pressure phase transitions and equations of state in NiSi. III. A new high-pressure phase of NiSi
Authors: Wood Ian G. , Ahmed Jabraan , Dobson David P. , Vočadlo Lidunka
Published: January 2013

A new high-pressure phase of NiSi has been synthesized in a multi-anvil press by quenching samples to room temperature from 1223–1310 K at 17.5 GPa and then recovering them to atmospheric pressure. The crystal structure of this recovered material has been determined from X-ray powder diffraction data; the resulting fractional coordinates are in good agreement with those obtained from anab initiocomputer simulation. The structure, in which each atom is six-fold coordinated by atoms of the other kind, is orthorhombic (space groupPmmn) witha= 3.27,b= 3.03,c= 4.70 Å. This orthorhombic phase of NiSi may be considered as a ferroelastic distortion of the hypothetical tetragonal (space groupP4/nmm) NiSi structure that was predicted to be the most stable phase (at 0 K) for pressures between 23 and 61 GPa in an earlierab initiostudy by Vočadlo, Wood & Dobson [J. Appl. Cryst.(2012),45, 186–196]. Furtherab initiosimulations have now shown that, with increasing pressure (at 0 K), NiSi is predicted to exist in the following polymorphs: (i) the MnP structure; (ii) the new orthorhombic structure with space groupPmmn; and (iii) the CsCl structure. Experimentally, all of these structures have now been observed and, in addition, a fourth polymorph, an ∊-FeSi-structured phase of NiSi (never the most thermodynamically stable phase in athermalab initiosimulations), may be readily synthesized at high pressure (P) and temperature (T). On the basis of both experiments and computer simulations it is therefore now clear that the phase diagram of NiSi at highPandTis complex. The simulated free-energy differences between different structures are often very small (<10 meV atom−1) and there is also the possibility of two displacive ferroelastic phase transformations, the first between structures withPmmnandP4/nmmsymmetry, and the second fromP4/nmmto a different orthorhombic phase of NiSi with space groupPbma. A complete understanding of the NiSi phase diagram (which may be of relevance to both planetary cores and the use of thin films of NiSi in semiconductor technology) can, therefore, only comevia in situexperiments at simultaneous highPand highT.
Twin and topotactic growth of β-eucryptite dendrites and their lattice coincidence analysed by the reticular theory
Authors: Zhao Shan-Rong , Xu Hai-Jun , Liu Rong , Wang Qin-Yan , Liu Xian-Yu
Published: January 2013

Snowflake-shaped dendrites of β-eucryptite–β-quartz solid solution were artificially crystallized in a matt glaze, and the crystallographic orientation of the dendrites was analysed by the electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique. The six branches of a snowflake-shaped dendrite in the plane (0001) are along 〈110〉. From the orientation determination, a twin relationship and a topotactic relationship between dendrites were found. The twin axes are [011], [0{\overline 1}1] and [210], and the twin planes perpendicular to the twin axes are ({\overline 1}2{\overline 1}2) and (1{\overline 2}12). From the reticular theory of twinning, it was calculated that the twin indexn= 2 and the obliquity ω = 3.2877°. The studied dendrite is a twin by reticular pseudomerohedry with low twin index and obliquity. In the topotactic growth, no twin elements have been found, but the three main crystallographic directions 〈001〉, 〈210〉 and 〈110〉 of the two dendritic crystals overlap each other. The degree of lattice coincidence between the two crystals in this topotactic growth is also discussed.
Cimetidine, C10H16N6S, form C: crystal structure and modelling of polytypes using the superspace approach
Authors: Arakcheeva Alla , Pattison Philip , Bauer-Brandl Annette , Birkedal Henrik , Chapuis Gervais
Published: January 2013

The H2 antagonist cimetidine forms many polymorphs, several of which have resisted structural analysis thus far. Using single-crystal X-ray measurements obtained from synchrotron radiation, the crystal structure of cimetidine form C has been solved. This layered structure crystallizes in space groupC2/cwith an unusually large lattice parameter,a= 82.904 Å. The thickness of each layerLis equal toa′ =a/6 = 13.82 Å, anda= 6a′ originates from a sixfoldLLLL′L′L′ sequence withLandL′ differing by 0.5b. This packing is reminiscent of polytypic stacking in metals. A (3 + 1)-dimensional superspace model is derived and used to explain and predict many polytypic modifications. This model is characterized by (i) the (3 + 1)-dimensional symmetry groupX2/c(α0γ)00, whereX= 0\textstyle{1 \over 2}0\textstyle{1 \over 2}; (ii) the lattice parametera′ and modulation vectorq= 1/n(a′*); (iii) the atomic positions of a single molecule of cimetidine form C; (iv) the primary variable, 1/n. The model reproduces the previously solved structure, the 6M polytype, and generates the related polytypesnM with lattice parameteranM =na′ forn= 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. A comparison of powder X-ray diffraction patterns available for cimetidine form C with those simulated for thenM polytypes suggests that the powder samples published previously probably contain a mixture of various polytypes.
The prolific polytypism of silicon carbide
Authors: Ortiz Angel L. , Sánchez-Bajo Florentino , Cumbrera Francisco L. , Guiberteau Fernando
Published: January 2013

A worked example of polytypism is presented, aimed at assisting undergraduates in the learning and instructors in the teaching of this topic. In particular, this crystallography concept, not necessarily obvious for beginners, is illustrated pedagogically using to that end the model case of the prolific polytypism of silicon carbide (SiC). On the basis of concepts that are easily assimilated by students (i.e.simple topological constraints) this article first presents a unified description of the polytypism phenomenon in SiC that allows one to understand without difficulty the existence of its numerous polytypic variants and how they develop. Then the various notations used to designate these different polytypes are described, and finally the crystal structures of the most common are discussed. This worked example is thus expected to contribute to motivating undergraduates in the study of a crystallography topic that often is not treated in sufficient depth in class.
Effect of crucible design on crystalline perfection and the enhanced optical properties of benzimidazole single crystals grown by the vertical Bridgman technique
Authors: Riscob B. , Vijayan N. , Shakir Mohd , Wahab M. A. , Bhagavannarayana G.
Published: January 2013

Good quality benzimidazole (BMZ) single crystals were successfully grown by the vertical Bridgman technique (VBT). The unavoidable thermal-induced structural grain boundaries formed in the normal VBT growth of these crystals with low melting point were controlled by using a double-wall ampoule. The grown single crystals were subjected to high-resolution X-ray diffraction to assess their crystallinity. The enhancement of optical properties due to the improvement in crystalline perfection is also reported.
Wandering Through Crisis and Everyday Organizing; Revealing the Subjective Nature of Interpretive, Temporal and Organizational Boundaries
Authors: van Laere Joeri
Published: January 2013

The results of a 6‐year action research study on developing crisis management preparedness in Swedish municipalities reveal strong connections rather than sharp distinctions between crisis and non‐crisis on interpretive, temporal and organizational dimensions. Confusion and debate about what is labelled as a crisis, when everyday ends and crisis begins, and who and who are not involved, may illuminate different views on what the scale, scope and inherent complexity of ‘our’ system is in crisis and in non‐crisis. Crises are not only a brutal audit for the practitioners involved, but also for the scientific theories that explain crisis behaviour. Current definitions of crisis understate the subjective nature of interpretations of crisis and organizing. To better understand the muddiness of organizing, crisis management researchers might aim for portraying more feed‐forward messiness in crisis study descriptions and applying less hindsight bias in their analyses. Such images could help practitioners realize that organizing is more complex and less controllable than currently might be pictured and assumed. A deeper exploration of concepts like duality, competing values and complex adaptive systems could serve both practitioners and researchers.
Inactivation of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in Hard Clams (Mercanaria mercanaria) by High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP) and the Effect of HHP on the Physical Characteristics of Hard Clam Meat
Authors: Mootian Gabriel K. , Flimlin George E. , Karwe Mukund V. , Schaffner Donald W.
Published: January 2013

Shellfish may internalize dangerous pathogens during filter feeding. Traditional methods of depuration have been found ineffective against certain pathogens. The objective was to explore high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) as an alternative to the traditional depuration process. The effect of HHP on the survival of Vibrio parahaemolyticus in live clams (Mercanaria mercanaria) and the impact of HHP on physical characteristics of clam meat were investigated. Clams were inoculated with up to 7 log CFU/g of a cocktail of V. parahaemolyticus strains via filter feeding. Clams were processed at pressures ranging from 250 to 552 MPa for hold times ranging between 2 and 6 min. Processing conditions of 450 MPa for 4 min and 350 MPa for 6 min reduced the initial concentration of V. parahaemolyticus to a nondetectable level (<101 CFU/g), achieving >5 log reductions. The volume of clam meat (processed in shell) increased with negligible change in mass after exposure to pressure at 552 MPa for 3 min, while the drip loss was reduced. Clams processed at 552 MPa were softer compared to those processed at 276 MPa. However, all HHP processed clams were found to be harder compared to unprocessed. The lightness (L*) of the meat increased although the redness (a*) decreased with increasing pressure. Although high pressure‐processed clams may pose a significantly lower risk from V. parahaemolyticus, the effect of the accompanied physical changes on the consumer's decision to purchase HHP clams remains to be determined.

Practical Application: Shellfish may contain dangerous foodborne pathogens. Traditional methods of removing those pathogen have been found ineffective against certain pathogens. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of high hydrostatic pressure on V. parahaemolyticus in clams. Processing conditions of 450 MPa for 4 min and 350 MPa for 6 min reduced the initial concentration of V. parahaemolyticus to a nondetectable level, achieving >5 log reductions.
Presence of Electrostatically Adsorbed Polysaccharides Improves Spray Drying of Liposomes
Authors: Karadag Ayse , Özçelik Beraat , Sramek Martin , Gibis Monika , Kohlus Reinhard , Weiss Jochen
Published: January 2013

Spray drying of liposomes with conventional wall materials such as maltodextrins often yields nonfunctional powders, that is, liposomes break down during drying and rehydration. Electrostatically coating the surface of liposomes with a charged polymer prior to spray drying may help solve this problem. Anionic lecithin liposomes (approximately 400 nm) were coated with lower (approximately 500 kDa, LMW‐C) or higher (approximately 900 kDa, HMW‐C) molecular weight cationic chitosan using the layer‐by‐layer depositing method. Low (DE20, LMW‐MD) or high molecular weight (DE2, HMW‐MD) maltodextrin was added as wall material to facilitate spray drying. If surfaces of liposomes (1%) were completely covered with chitosan (0.4%), no bridging or depletion flocculation would occur, and mean particle diameters would be approximately 500 nm. If maltodextrins (20%) were added to uncoated liposomes, extensive liposomal breakdown would occur making the system unsuitable for spray drying. No such aggregation or breakdown was observed when maltodextrin was added to chitosan‐coated liposomes. Size changed little or even decreased slightly depending on the molecular weight of maltodextrin added. Scanning electron microscopy images of powders containing chitosan‐coated liposomes revealed that their morphologies depended on the type of maltodextrin added. Powders prepared with LMW‐MD contained mostly spherical particles while HMW‐MD powders contained particles with concavities and dents. Upon redispersion, coated liposomes yielded back dispersions with particle size distributions similar to the original ones, except for LMW‐C coated samples that had been spray dried with HMW‐MD which yielded aggregates (approximately 30 μm). Results show that coating of liposomes with an absorbing polymer allows them to be spray dried with conventional maltodextrin wall materials.

Practical Application: Liposomes have attracted considerable attention in the food and agricultural, biomedical industries for the delivery of functional components. However, maintaining their stability in aqueous dispersion represents a challenge for their commercialization. Spray drying may promise a solution to that problem. However, prior to this study spray drying of liposomes often led to the loss of structural integrity. Results of this study suggest that spray drying might be used to produce commercially feasible liposomal powders if proper combinations of adsorbing and nonadsorbing polymers are used in the liquid precursor system.
Comparison of the Proteolytic Activities of New Commercially Available Bacterial and Fungal Proteases toward Meat Proteins
Authors: Ha Minh , Bekhit Alaa El‐Din , Carne Alan , Hopkins David L.
Published: January 2013

The hydrolytic activity of 3 commercially available protease preparations (bacterial protease G, fungal 31000, and fungal 60000) were examined using fluorescent‐labeled casein, azo dye‐impregnated collagen, and meat protein extracts from bovine M. semimembranosus and Achilles tendon, and compared to that of papain. Assays showed that all proteases exhibited little activity at low temperature (5 °C), and maximal activity at 45 °C. The pH, at which optimal activity was observed for each of the protease preparations, differed and ranged from pH 5.0 to 8.0. Kinetic parameters (KM and Vmax) were also different between protease preparations, with the bacterial protease G and papain exhibiting significantly higher Vmax values (P < 0.001) and lower KM values (P < 0.01) for the casein substrate than the 2 fungal protease preparations. Meat protein hydrolysis was displayed on SDS‐PAGE and proteins analyzed with mass spectrometry. The protease preparations were shown to have varying affinity toward different meat proteins. The bacterial protease G preparation was efficient at hydrolyzing most myofibril and collagen proteins, and appeared to be more efficient than papain at hydrolyzing collagen proteins. On the other hand the 2 fungal protease preparations showed a selective specificity toward meat myofibrillar proteins, and the fungal 60000 protease preparation exhibited high affinity toward collagen γ and collagen type I chain B proteins. The results generated in this study demonstrated that these commercial proteases have good potential for use in meat tenderization applications due to their mild and complementary effects on different meat proteins.

Practical Application: Bacterial and fungal protease preparations exhibited varying affinities for hydrolyzing meat proteins. This selective moderate capability of microbial proteases compared to papain is potentially an advantage in avoiding over‐tenderization in meat. On the other hand, the bacterial protease G preparation, which appeared to be more efficient at hydrolyzing connective tissue proteins than papain, could be beneficial in tenderizing meat with high connective tissue content. The synergistic effect of these protease preparations could be incorporated into a meat tenderizing formula to give the tenderizer a broad activity spectrum, thus able to target different cuts of meat.
Preference Mapping of Lemon Lime Carbonated Beverages with Regular and Diet Beverage Consumers
Authors: Leksrisompong P. P. , Lopetcharat K. , Guthrie B. , Drake M. A.
Published: January 2013

The drivers of liking of lemon‐lime carbonated beverages were investigated with regular and diet beverage consumers. Ten beverages were selected from a category survey of commercial beverages using a D‐optimal procedure. Beverages were subjected to consumer testing (n = 101 regular beverage consumers, n = 100 diet beverage consumers). Segmentation of consumers was performed on overall liking scores followed by external preference mapping of selected samples. Diet beverage consumers liked 2 diet beverages more than regular beverage consumers. There were no differences in the overall liking scores between diet and regular beverage consumers for other products except for a sparkling beverage sweetened with juice which was more liked by regular beverage consumers. Three subtle but distinct consumer preference clusters were identified. Two segments had evenly distributed diet and regular beverage consumers but one segment had a greater percentage of regular beverage consumers (P < 0.05). The 3 preference segments were named: cluster 1 (C1) sweet taste and carbonation mouthfeel lovers, cluster 2 (C2) carbonation mouthfeel lovers, sweet and bitter taste acceptors, and cluster 3 (C3) bitter taste avoiders, mouthfeel and sweet taste lovers. User status (diet or regular beverage consumers) did not have a large impact on carbonated beverage liking. Instead, mouthfeel attributes were major drivers of liking when these beverages were tested in a blind tasting.

Practical Application: Preference mapping of lemon‐lime carbonated beverage with diet and regular beverage consumers allowed the determination of drivers of liking of both populations. The understanding of how mouthfeel attributes, aromatics, and basic tastes impact liking or disliking of products was achieved. Preference drivers established in this study provide product developers of carbonated lemon‐lime beverages with additional information to develop beverages that may be suitable for different groups of consumers.
Cytomegalovirus: A probable cause of steroid‐refractory ulcerative colitis
Authors: Xue Meng , Chen Shu Jie , Wang Liang Jing , Du Ying , Si Jian Min
Published: January 2013

Cytomegalovirus, regarded as a trigger of several autoimmune diseases, is an opportunistic pathogen. Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) undergoing steroid treatment are susceptible to this infection. In the presence of cytomegalovirus, inflammation becomes more complex. Patients with active UC who are infected with cytomegalovirus are usually non‐responders to steroid, while antiviral drugs could induce remission. Cytomegalovirus should be suggested as a probable cause of steroid‐refractory UC based on the clinical data in the literatures.
Differential mitochondrial proteome analysis of human lung adenocarcinoma and normal bronchial epithelium cell lines using quantitative mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Wei , Li Yanting , Yang Shuanying , Li Wei , Ming Zongjuan , Zhang Yuping , Hou Yanli , Niu Zequn , Rong Biaoxue , Zhang Xuede , Liu Xiaoli
Published: January 2013

Background

Lung cancer is one of the higher incidences of malignant tumors around the world. At present, tumor markers CEA, CA19‐9, and CA‐125 in serum are used for the diagnosis of lung cancer, however, fewer studies have shown tumor markers for early diagnosis. Therefore, using quantitative mass spectrometry, differential mitochondrial proteome analysis was performed, comparing human lung adenocarcinoma and normal bronchial epithelium cells.

Methods

A human lung adenocarcinoma cell line A549 and a normal human bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE were cultured in vitro. The cell mitochondria of the two cell lines were extracted and purified by differential centrifugation and percoll density gradient centrifugation. The integrity and purity of mitochondria were validated by electron microscopy and Western‐blot. The proteins/peptides from lung cancer cells and normal cells were marked by the same amount of relative and absolute quantification of ectopic tags (iTRAQ). The mixed samples were analyzed and identified by two‐dimensional liquid chromatography – tandem mass spectrometry (2D‐LC‐MS/MS). The proteome was analyzed with different bioinformatic tools.

Results

One hundred and sixty‐one mitochondrial proteins were identified. One hundred and fifty‐three mitochondrial proteins, which were expressed differently between 16HBE cells and A549 cells, were identified. Sixty‐seven proteins were high expression, while 86 proteins were lower expression. Expression of three proteins: ornithine aminotransferase (OAT), heat shock protein beta90 (HSP90), and vimentin (VIM), was increased more than twice. Our results, in combination with the literature review, suggest that HSP90 and Vimentin may be the new tumor markers of lung cancer.
Heparin‐binding protein (HBP): an early marker of respiratory failure after trauma?
Authors: JOHANSSON J. , BRATTSTRÖM O. , SJÖBERG F. , LINDBOM L. , HERWALD H. , WEITZBERG E. , OLDNER A.
Published: January 2013

Background

Trauma and its complications contribute to morbidity and mortality in the general population. Trauma victims are susceptible to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and sepsis. Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) are activated after trauma and there is substantial evidence of their involvement in the development of ARDS. Activated PMNs release heparin‐binding protein (HBP), a granule protein previously shown to be involved in acute inflammatory reactions. We hypothesised that there is an increase in plasma HBP content after trauma and that the increased levels are related to the severity of the trauma or later development of severe sepsis and organ failure (ARDS).

Methods and Material

We investigated HBP in plasma samples within 36 h from trauma in 47 patients admitted to a level one trauma centre with a mean injury severity score (ISS) of 26 (21–34). ISS, admission sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) and Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II scores were recorded at admission. ARDS and presence of severe sepsis were determined daily during intensive care.

Results

We found no correlation between individual maximal plasma HBP levels at admission and ISS, admission SOFA or APACHE II. We found, however, a correlation between HBP levels and development of ARDS (P = 0.026, n = 47), but not to severe sepsis.

Conclusion

HBP is a potential biomarker candidate for early detection of ARDS development after trauma. Further research is required to confirm a casual relationship between plasma HBP and the development of ARDS.
The Source of Iron‐Oxide Pigments Used in Pecos River Style Rock Paints
Authors: Bu K. , Cizdziel J. V. , Russ J.
Published: January 2013

The likely sources of iron‐oxide pigments used in prehistoric rock paintings in the Lower Pecos Archaeological Region were identified on the basis of chemical fingerprinting using LA–ICP–MS. The chemical signatures of 13 red rock paint samples collected from two south‐west Texas sites were compared with three potential source materials (ochre, siltstone and rhyolite), and two pigment cakes (crayons) that were excavated near the sampling sites. The significant chemical similarities between the paint and siltstones suggest that siltstone was used as the source of the colour. The overlapping chemical signatures for one of the pigment cakes and siltstone further suggests that some of the prehistoric people inhabiting the area 3000–4000 years ago had acquired the skills to extract iron oxide from siltstone and process it into paint pigments.
Cephalodiscusreproductive biology (Pterobranchia,Hemichordata)
Authors: Dilly Peter N.
Published: January 2013

Sexually mature adults and embryos and larvae ofCephalodiscus nigrescensandC.graciliswere studied by light and electron microscopy. Contrary to claims in the literature, individual coenecial cavities are inhabited by colonies of up to 15 joined zooids and not by single individuals, which is important for the interpretation of the mode of life of the related fossil group the graptolites. Some aspects of the reproductive apparatus and reproduction inCephalodiscusare reported. The ultrastructure of the spermatozoon is described for the first time. Coelom formation is by schizocoely. The structure of the larva at several developmental stages is illustrated. Not all fertilised eggs are destined to become motile larvae and some develop into zooids omitting the motile stage. The lumen of the oviduct is much larger than previously supposed. Spermatozoa are shed into the cavity of the coenecium. It is proposed that fertilisation takes place within the coenecium. The ultrastructure of the enigmatic black ‘CommaBody’ is described and a reproductive function is proposed. Budding takes place from a base common to several zooids. This base probably also serves as an attachment foot. Large masses of yolk have been discovered within the coelom of some zooids and muscle stalks. It is inconceivable that a colony ofCephalodiscus nigrescenscould survive unless it spent most of its life outside the coenecium.
Inhibition of MAO‐A and stimulation of behavioural activities in mice by the inactive prodrug form of the anti‐influenza agent oseltamivir
Authors: Hiasa Miki , Isoda Yumiko , Kishimoto Yasushi , Saitoh Kenta , Kimura Yasuaki , Kanai Motomu , Shibasaki Masakatsu , Hatakeyama Dai , Kirino Yutaka , Kuzuhara Takashi
Published: January 2013

Background and Purpose

Oseltamivir is the most widely prescribed anti‐influenza medication. However, in rare instances, it has been reported to stimulate behavioural activities in adolescents. The goal of this study was to determine the molecular mechanism responsible for these behavioural activities.

Experimental Approach

We performed an in vitro assay of MAO‐A, the enzyme responsible for neurotransmitter degradation, using either the active form – oseltamivir carboxylate (OC) or the inactive prodrug – oseltamivir ethyl ester (OEE). We also analysed the docking of MAO‐A with OEE or OC in silico. Mouse behaviours after OEE or OC administration were monitored using automated video and computer analysis.

Key Results

OEE, but not OC, competitively and selectively inhibited human MAO‐A. The estimated Ki value was comparable with the Km values of native substrates of MAO‐A. Docking simulations in silico based on the tertiary structure of MAO‐A suggested that OEE could fit into the inner pocket of the enzyme. Behavioural monitoring using automated video analysis further revealed that OEE, not OC, significantly enhanced spontaneous behavioural activities in mice, such as jumping, rearing, sniffing, turning and walking.

Conclusions and Implications

Our multilevel analyses suggested OEE to be the cause of the side effects associated with oseltamivir and revealed the molecular mechanism underlying the stimulated behaviours induced by oseltamivir in some circumstances.
Glutathione S‐transferase P1 Ile105Val polymorphism modulates allergen‐induced airway inflammation in human atopic asthmatics in vivo
Authors: Hoskins A. , Wu P. , Reiss S. , Dworski R.
Published: January 2013

Background

Glutathione S‐transferase P1 is a Phase II cytoprotective and detoxifying enzyme that is widely expressed in human airways. The glutathione S‐transferase P1 Ile105Val polymorphism has been linked with atopic disorders and asthma. Yet, little remains known about the regulation of allergic inflammation by glutathione S‐transferase P1 in human asthmatics.

Objective

To establish the effect of the glutathione S‐transferase P1 Ile105Val polymorphism on allergen‐induced airway inflammation and oxidant stress, and non‐specific bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine and reactivity to specific allergen in mild human atopic asthmatics in vivo.

Methods

Five Val105/Val105, twelve Val105/Ile105 and twenty Ile105/Ile105 mild atopic asthmatics underwent methacholine challenge, inhaled allergen challenge and endobronchial allergen provocation through a bronchoscope. A panel of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, F2‐isoprostanes and isofuranes, markers of oxidative stress, thromboxane B2 and immunoglobulin E were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at baseline and 24 h after allergen instillation.

Results

Asthmatics with glutathione S‐transferase P1 Val105/Val105 compared with asthmatics with the glutathione S‐transferase P1 Val105/Ile105 and Ile105/Ile105 had greater generation of acute phase cytokines (TNF‐α, IL‐6, CXCL8), IL‐12, CCL11, thromboxane B2 and immunoglobulin E at 24 h after local allergen challenge. The GSTP1 genotype had no effect on airway hyperresponsiveness to methacholine and the reactivity to specific allergen.

Conclusion

The glutathione S‐transferase P1 Ile105Val polymorphism markedly modifies allergen‐provoked airway inflammation in atopic asthmatics in vivo. Modulation of the biochemical milieu in response to allergen provides a mechanistic explanation for regulatory effects of glutathione S‐transferase P1 polymorphism on airway pathophysiology, and may guide improvement of future therapeutic methods in human atopic asthmatics. These findings must me confirmed in a larger study population of asthmatics with various ethnicities.
Development of atopic disease and disturbed sleep in childhood and adolescence – a longitudinal population‐based study
Authors: Jernelöv S. , Lekander M. , Almqvist C. , Axelsson J. , Larsson H.
Published: January 2013

Background

Both atopic diseases and sleep disturbances have increased during recent decades, especially in children. Sleep is important for many aspects of immune regulation relevant in allergic diseases, and sleep disturbances are common in patients with such diseases. A connection between sleep disturbances and fatigue, and atopic disease is well established. However, the time course and putative causal relationships between these factors are obscure.

Objective

We aimed at investigating the developmental relationships between subjectively reported sleep disturbances and symptoms of atopic disease, from childhood to adolescence.

Methods

This longitudinal study used parent‐report questionnaire data on symptoms of atopic disease, and sleep disturbances, from the Twin Study of Child and Adolescent Development (TCHAD). Overall, 1480 twin pairs born in Sweden were approached first when children were 8–9 years old, and again later at 13–14 years old. Response rates were 75% and 72%. Data from the TCHAD questionnaires were linked to the Swedish Medical Birth Register based on personal identification numbers.

Results

Being overtired at age 8 increased the risk [OR; 95% CI (2.59; 1.31–5.11)] to develop rhinitis symptoms at age 13, even when controlling for gender, previous rhinitis, Socio‐economic status, birth weight and other sleep disturbances at age 8. Likewise, symptoms of asthma at age 8 was an independent risk factor for being overtired at age 13 [OR; 95% CI (2.64; 1.44–4.84)], controlling for similar confounders.

Conclusion & Clinical Relevance

The findings from this study are consonant with the proposition that atopic disease and disturbed sleep are more than passively interrelated. Future research needs to delineate whether causal relationships between these problems are at hand and, if so, at what periods in development this applies. These results point to a need for clinicians to investigate sleep difficulties and treat impaired sleep in paediatric patients with atopic disease.
The effect of B cell depletion therapy on anti‐TSH receptor antibodies and clinical outcome in glucocorticoid‐refractory Graves' orbitopathy
Authors: Mitchell Anna L. , Gan Earn H. , Morris Margaret , Johnson Kim , Neoh Christopher , Dickinson A. Jane , Perros Petros , Pearce Simon H. S.
Published: January 2013

Objective

This case series documents the response of nine individuals with glucocorticoid‐refractory Graves' orbitopathy (GO) to B cell depletion therapy with rituximab (RTX).

Context

Graves' disease (GD) is one of the commonest autoimmune conditions and is frequently associated with inflammatory changes around the eyes (GO). GO frequently results in significant functional visual impairment, and in the most severe cases, it can result in permanent loss of sight. RTX is a therapeutic monoclonal antibody, which targets cell‐surface CD‐20, resulting in depletion of circulating B lymphocytes. It has been found to be useful for the treatment of a number of autoimmune conditions including, in preliminary studies, GO.

Design and Patients

We have treated nine individuals (1 male, 8 female, age range 37–87 years) with glucocorticoid‐resistant GO with RTX since 2008. RTX was administered in divided doses at fortnightly intervals, following 500 mg IV methylprednisolone pretreatment.

Measurements

Each patient underwent thorough assessment before and after RTX therapy, including thyroid function tests, B cell counts, thyroid autoantibody levels and detailed clinical assessment according to EUGOGO standard protocols. All patients have now been followed up for 16 months or more.

Results

There was a significant reduction in thyrotropin receptor binding inhibitory immunoglobulin (TBII) levels in all patients following RTX treatment and a reduction in the clinical activity score (CAS) was seen in all cases. We also report striking improvement in pretibial thyroid dermopathy in one patient following RTX.

Conclusions

This case series adds to the growing literature demonstrating that RTX, administered in our patients with concomitant methylprednisolone, is safe and clinically effective in the treatment of active, moderate to severe and sight‐threatening GO. Randomized controlled trials are now needed to confirm the efficacy of RTX for GO.
Epidermal panfolliculoma: an adnexal proliferation with advanced follicular differentiation confined to the epidermis
Authors: Idriss Munir H. , Khalil Ahmed , Long William , Elston Dirk M.
Published: January 2013

Follicular differentiation can be exhibited by a variety of epidermal lesions. We report an example of panfolliculoma purely confined to the epidermis. The lesion presented as a verrucous plaque on the leg of a 55‐year‐old man. Histopathologic sections showed an acanthoma with follicular differentiation including areas mimicking the follicular germ, matrix, root sheath and infundibular components.
Applying occupancy estimation and modelling to the analysis of atlas data
Authors: Sadoti Giancarlo , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Jarzyna Marta A. , Porter William F.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Biological atlases are a globally widespread and effective means for documenting the distribution of numerous taxa and have been used to study many macroecological relationships. A common assumption when analysing atlas data is that species are detected perfectly (p = 1). This assumption is likely incorrect, but the application of methods to account for heterogeneous detectability (p < 1) has been difficult to implement. We provide an application of current methods of occupancy estimation and modelling to account for imperfect detection in the analysis of atlas data.

Location

New York, USA.

Methods

We employed multiseason occupancy models substituting spatial replicates for temporally repeated surveys to examine changes in distribution of the Canada Warbler (Cardellina canadensis) using breeding bird atlases from 1980–1985 and 2000–2005. We compared estimates from models accounting for p < 1 versus those assuming p = 1 in assessing statewide patterns of occupancy, colonization and extinction.

Results

We found forest cover, observer effort, information on previous detections and the sampling year were important predictors of detection. Environmental predictors of statewide occupancy dynamics were similar among models accounting for p < 1 versus those assuming p = 1. Despite these similarities, site‐level estimates of occupancy from the model accounting for imperfect detection indicated 14% and 19% higher site occupancy in the 1980–1985 and 2000–2005 Atlases, respectively. In addition, relative to the model accounting for p < 1, the model assuming perfect detectability underestimated persistence and overestimated extinction between atlases. The model accounting for p < 1 had 0.3% and 7.9% higher accuracy in predicting occupancy in the 1980–1985 and 2000–2005 Atlases, respectively, than the models assuming p = 1.

Main conclusions

Occupancy modelling and estimation can be successfully applied to broad‐scale surveys, such as atlases, that do not explicitly implement repeated visits to a survey block. Occupancy modelling allows for a more rigorous analysis of atlas data for exploring species–environmental relationships and modelling species distributions while accounting for imperfect detection.