bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression and optimization of glutamate decarboxylase in Lactobacillus plantarum Taj‐Apis362 for high gamma‐aminobutyric acid production
Authors: Tajabadi Naser , Baradaran Ali , Ebrahimpour Afshin , Rahim Raha A. , Bakar Fatimah A. , Manap Mohd Yazid A. , Mohammed Abdulkarim S. , Saari Nazamid
Published: March 2015

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an important bioactive compound biosynthesized by microorganisms through decarboxylation of glutamate by glutamate decarboxylase (GAD). In this study, a full‐length GAD gene was obtained by cloning the template deoxyribonucleic acid to pTZ57R/T vector. The open reading frame of the GAD gene showed the cloned gene was composed of 1410 nucleotides and encoded a 469 amino acids protein. To improve the GABA‐production, the GAD gene was cloned into pMG36e‐LbGAD, and then expressed in Lactobacillus plantarum Taj‐Apis362 cells. The overexpression was confirmed by SDS‐PAGE and GAD activity, showing a 53 KDa protein with the enzyme activity increased by sevenfold compared with the original GAD activity. The optimal fermentation conditions for GABA production established using response surface methodology were at glutamic acid concentration of 497.973 mM, temperature 36°C, pH 5.31 and time 60 h. Under the conditions, maximum GABA concentration obtained (11.09 mM) was comparable with the predicted value by the model at 11.23 mM. To our knowledge, this is the first report of successful cloning (clone‐back) and overexpression of the LbGAD gene from L. plantarum to L. plantarum cells. The recombinant Lactobacillus could be used as a starter culture for direct incorporation into a food system during fermentation for production of GABA‐rich products.
ExploringComQXPAquorum‐sensing diversity and biocontrol potential ofBacillusspp. isolates from tomato rhizoplane
Authors: Oslizlo A. , Stefanic P. , Vatovec S. , Beigot Glaser S. , Rupnik M. , Mandic‐Mulec I.
Published: March 2015

Bacillus subtilisis a widespread and diverse bacterium t exhibits a remarkable intraspecific diversity of theComQXPAquorum‐sensing (QS) system. This manifests in the existence of distinct communication groups (pherotypes) that can efficiently communicate within a group, but not between groups. SimilarQSdiversity was also found in other bacterial species, and its ecological and evolutionary meaning is still being explored. Here we further address theComQXPA QSdiversity among isolates from the tomato rhizoplane, a natural habitat ofB. subtilis, where these bacteria likely exist in their vegetative form. Because thisQSsystem regulates production of anti‐pathogenic and biofilm‐inducing substances such as surfactins, knowledge on cell–cell communication of this bacterium within rhizoplane is also important from the biocontrol perspective. We confirm the presence of pherotype diversity withinB. subtilisstrains isolated from a rhizoplane of a single plant. We also show thatB. subtilisrhizoplane isolates show a remarkable diversity of surfactin production and potential plant growth promoting traits. Finally, we discover that effects of surfactin deletion on biofilm formation can be strain specific and unexpected in the light of current knowledge on its role it this process.
Environmental factors influencing the distribution of ammonifying and denitrifying bacteria and water qualities in 10 lakes and reservoirs of the Northeast, China
Authors: Zhao XinYu , Wei Zimin , Zhao Yue , Xi Beidou , Wang Xueqin , Zhao Taozhi , Zhang Xu , Wei Yuquan
Published: March 2015

This study presents seasonal and spatial variations of the ammonifying bacteria (AB) and denitrifying bacteria (DNB) and physicochemical parameters in 10 lakes and reservoirs in the northeast of China. Water samples were collected in winter (January), spring (March), summer (July) and fall (November) in 2011. The study revealed that physicochemical parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), NH4+‐N and nitrate as nitrogen were closely related with the distribution of AB and DNB. Seasonally, the levels of AB presents gradually upward trend from winter to summer, and declines in fall and DNB were higher in spring and fall than summer and lowest in winter. Spatially, the annual average of AB among 10 lakes and reservoirs showed insignificant difference (P > 0.05), for DNB, Udalianchi and Lianhuan Lake were lower than others (P < 0.05). Regression correlation analysis showed that the levels of AB and DNB had a close relationship with nitrogen nutrition. Three principal components were identified of total variances which are conditionally classified by the ‘natural’ factor (PC1) and ‘nitrogen nutrients’ (PC2, PC3). According the principal component scores, cluster analysis detected two distinct groups: (C1) mainly affected by nitrogen nutrients and (C2) natural environmental factors.
Some Controversies about Early Repolarization: The Haïssaguerre Syndrome
Authors: Kukla Peter , Jastrzębski Marek , Pérez–Riera Andrés Ricardo
Published: March 2015

Controversy has followed the groundbreaking and cornerstone paper of Haïssaguerre et al. Much of this controversy has been due to the use of the term “early repolarization pattern” and possible waveform morphologies on the standard 12‐lead ECG ( it is 10 second strip) that could predict who will manifest the malignant arrhythmogenic syndrome described by Haïssaguerre et al. The standard ECG definition of early repolarization pattern (ERP) or early repolarization variant (ERV) since then has changed its clinical meaning for a surface electrocardiographic waveform from benign to malignant. The new definition of ERP/ERV contains only J wave but ST‐segment elevation is no more obligatory. In the old definition, early repolarization pattern (ERP) or early repolarization variant (ERV) 3 is a well‐recognized idiopathic electrocardiographic phenomenon considered to be present when at least two adjacent precordial leads show elevation of the ST segment, with values equal or higher than 1 mm. In the new electrocardiographic ERP concept, the ST segment may or may not be elevated and can be up‐sloping, horizontal or down‐sloping while in the old ERP/ERV concept it must be elevated at least 1 mm in at least two adjacent leads and the variant is characterized by a diffuse elevation of the ST segment of upper concavity, ending in a positive T wave of V2 to V4 or V5 and prominent J wave and ST‐segment elevation predominantly in left precordial leads. The phenomenon constitutes a normal variant; it is almost a rule in athletes (present in 89% of the cases in this universe).
Management of prolonged pregnancy by induction with a Foley catheter
Authors: Kruit Heidi , Heikinheimo Oskari , Ulander Veli‐Matti , Aitokallio‐Tallberg Ansa , Nupponen Irmeli , Paavonen Jorma , Rahkonen Leena
Published: March 2015

Objectives

To describe labor outcomes in women with prolonged pregnancy and induction of labor with a Foley catheter, as compared with women with spontaneous onset of labor.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

Helsinki University Hospital.

Sample

553 women with uncomplicated prolonged pregnancies between January 2011 and January 2012, divided into 303 women (54.8%) with Foley catheter induction and 250 (45.2%) with spontaneous labor.

Methods

Maternal and neonatal characteristics of women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancy of ≥41+5 weeks of gestation were analyzed.

Main outcome measures

Cesarean delivery rates, maternal and neonatal morbidity.

Results

The cesarean delivery rate was 30.7% (n = 93/303) in women with labor induction and 4.8% (12/250) in women with spontaneous onset of labor (p < 0.001). The cesarean delivery rate was 37.3% (91/244) among nulliparous women with labor induction and 8.7% (11/126) among women with spontaneous labor, a sixfold increased risk (odds ratio 6.2). Among parous women, cesarean section rates were low and not significantly different (3.4% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.2). There were no differences in maternal intrapartum or postpartum infection rates or adverse neonatal outcomes between the groups.

Conclusions

Foley catheter induction of labor in prolonged pregnancy did not increase maternal or perinatal morbidity compared with spontaneous onset of labor but was associated with a considerably increased cesarean section rate, particularly among nulliparous women.
Clinical significance of bile reflux into the pancreatic duct without pancreaticobiliary maljunction assessed by intraoperative cholangiography
Authors: Ueno Kimihiko , Ajiki Tetsuo , Murakami Sae , Fujita Tsunenori , Matsumoto Taku , Shinozaki Kenta , Fukumoto Takumi , Ku Yonson
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Bile reflux into the pancreatic duct (BRPD) is sometimes demonstrated during intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) even in patients without pancreaticobiliary maljunction. However, the clinical significance of this finding in laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy is unclear.

Methods

Among 484 patients who underwent cholecystectomy (372 laparoscopic, 112 open), patients whose pancreatic duct was depicted in IOC were selected. The value of pancreatic amylase (p‐amylase) of the gallbladder bile, histological changes, and the immunohistochemical expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) in the gallbladder mucosa were analyzed in patients with BRPD. The data were then compared to those in patients without BRPD whose gallbladder bile p‐amylase was measured (control group, n = 20).

Results

The success rate of IOC was 93.6%. The rate of BRPD in laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy was 5.2% and 5.7%, respectively. The value of gallbladder bile p‐amylase in patients with BRPD was significantly higher than in the control group (790.5 vs 14.0 IU/L, P = 0.034). The value of the PCNA labeling index in patients with BRPD was significantly higher than that of the control group (15.4% vs 4.1%, P = 0.0026). Among the 24 patients with BRPD, pathological changes in the gallbladder mucosa were detected in five (two hyperplasia, three metaplasia), but there was no correlation between the presence of pathological change and PCNA labeling index or gallbladder bile p‐amylase.

Conclusions

IOC could detect BRPD both in laparoscopic and open cholecystectomy at a similar rate. Patients with BRPD had high levels of gallbladder bile p‐amylase and PCNA labeling index, findings similar to those in patients with pancreaticobiliary maljunction.
A Direct Method to Evaluate the Time-Dependent Predictive Accuracy for Biomarkers
Authors: Shen Weining , Ning Jing , Yuan Ying
Published: March 2015

Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and their area under the curve (AUC) are important measures to evaluate the prediction accuracy of biomarkers for time-to-event endpoints (e.g., time to disease progression or death). In this article, we propose a direct method to estimate AUC(t) as a function of time t using a flexible fractional polynomials model, without the middle step of modeling the time-dependent ROC. We develop a pseudo partial-likelihood procedure for parameter estimation and provide a test procedure to compare the predictive performance between biomarkers. We establish the asymptotic properties of the proposed estimator and test statistics. A major advantage of the proposed method is its ease to make inference and to compare the prediction accuracy across biomarkers, rendering our method particularly appealing for studies that require comparing and screening a large number of candidate biomarkers. We evaluate the finite-sample performance of the proposed method through simulation studies and illustrate our method in an application to AIDS Clinical Trials Group 175 data.
Continental margin syn‐rift salt tectonics at intermediate width margins
Authors: Allen Janice , Beaumont Christopher
Published: March 2015

This paper examines interactions among syn‐rift continental margin extension, evaporites, particularly rocksalt (halite), deposited in the overlying sedimentary basins, and clastic sediment loading. We present dynamically evolving 2D numerical models that combine syn‐rift lithospheric extension, with salt (viscous halite, 1018–1019 Pa s) and clastic (frictional‐plastic) sediment deposition to investigate how salt is distributed and subsequently mobilized during syn‐rift extension. Example results are shown, contrasting salt deposition in the early, mid and late syn‐rift phases of a single lithospheric extension model. The lithospheric model is chosen to give depth‐dependent extension and intermediate width margins with proximal grabens and a hyperextended distal region. The models exhibit diachronous migration of extension towards the rift axis and this is reflected in the faulting of overlying sediments. The models illustrate the roles of timing of salt deposition, relative to rifting and subsequent sedimentation, in defining the location and deformation of syn‐rift salt, with post‐salt sediment progradation in some models. Late deposition of salt leads to increased lateral extent of the original salt body and decreased variation in salt thickness. Seaward flow of salt increases with later deposition; early syn‐rift salt is deposited and trapped in the grabens, whereas mid and late syn‐rift salt tends to flow towards the distal margin or even over the oceanic crust. Prograding clastic post‐salt sediments drive more substantial seaward movement of mid and late syn‐rift salt. A numerical model of the Red Sea with evaporite deposition during the mid to late syn‐rift period, preceded and followed by aggrading and prograding clastic sediment, shows reasonable agreement with observations from the central Red Sea.
Climatic and halokinetic controls on alluvial–lacustrine sedimentation during compressional deformation, Andean forearc, northern Chile
Authors: Evenstar Laura A. , Hartley Adrian J. , Archer Stuart G. , Neilson Joyce E.
Published: March 2015

The Salar de Atacama forms one of a series of forearc basins developed along the western flank of the Central Andes. Exposed along the northwest margin of the basin, a salt‐cored range, the Cordillera de la Sal, records the Mid‐Miocene to recent sedimentological and structural development of this basin. Sediments of the Mid‐Miocene Vilama Formation record the complex interaction between regional/local climate change, halokinesis and compressional deformation. This study reveals how these factors have controlled the facies development and distribution within the Salar de Atacama. Detailed sedimentary logging, cross‐sections and present day geomorphology through the northern Cordillera de la Sal have been used to establish a lithostratigraphy, chronostratigraphy and the regional distribution of the Vilama Formation. The Vilama Formation documents an increase in aridity with a hiatus in sedimentation from Mid‐Miocene to 9 Ma with initial uplift of the Cordillera de la Sal. From 9 Ma to 8.5 Ma deposition of a meandering fluvial system is recorded followed by a rapid decrease in sedimentation till 6 Ma. From 6 to 2 Ma, the deposition of extensive palustrine carbonates and distal alluvial–mudflat–lacustrine demonstrates the existence of an extensive lake within the Salar de Atacama. Post 2 Ma, the lake decreased in size and braided alluvial gravels associated with alluvial fans were widespread through the region suggesting a final shift to hyperarid conditions. By comparing the Vilama Formation with similar age facies throughout northern Chile and southern Peru, several shifts in climate are recognized. Climate signatures within northern Chile appear to be largely diachronous with the last regional event in the Mid‐Miocene. Since that time, humid events have been restricted to either Precordillerian basins or the Central Atacama. Within the Central Atacama, the final switch to hyperarid conditions was not till the earliest Pleistocene, much later than previously estimated within the region.
Innovation Portfolio Management: A Synthesis and Research Agenda
Authors: Meifort Anna
Published: March 2015

Innovation portfolio management (IPM) addresses the resource allocation across a firm's portfolio of new product development projects consistent with corporate strategy. The paper provides a comprehensive review of IPM research and offers new conceptual arguments by systematizing prior findings in the following four categories: optimization perspective, strategic perspective, decision‐making perspective and organizational perspective. These different approaches to IPM have been largely disconnected so far, but they can complement one another to provide new theoretical insights into a critical topic in innovation research. The different approaches are therefore integrated into an overarching perspective and a detailed research agenda is proposed.
$1 DNA barcodes for reconstructing complex phenomes and finding rare species in specimen‐rich samples
Authors: Meier Rudolf , Wong Winghing , Srivathsan Amrita , Foo Maosheng
Published: March 2015

Several of the biggest challenges in taxonomy and systematics are related to a toxic mixture of small size, abundance, and rarity. There are too many species in groups with too few taxonomists and many of these species are very rare and hard to find because they are hidden in mass samples. To make matters worse, these species often have life‐history stages that are morphologically so different that it is difficult to identify them as semaphoronts of the same species. We demonstrate that these biodiversity challenges can be addressed with cost‐effective molecular markers. Here, we describe a next‐generation‐sequencing protocol that can yield barcodes at a chemical cost of < 0.40 USD per specimen. We use this protocol to generate molecular markers for 1015 specimens of tropical midges (Diptera: Chironomidae). The barcodes cluster into 52–61 molecular operational taxonomic units (OTUs) depending on whether Objective Clustering (OC), Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC), or Poisson Tree Process (PTP) is used. More than half of the putative species are rare (< 10 specimens) and we are able to match larvae and adults for 24 of these OTUs. We argue that the proposed protocol will help with processing specimen‐rich biodiversity samples at low cost.
Linking Behavior to Vital Rates to Measure the Effects of Non‐Lethal Disturbance on Wildlife
Authors: Christiansen Fredrik , Lusseau David
Published: March 2015

The need for managing non‐lethal effects on wildlife is becoming increasingly important as global human–wildlife interactions are now more frequent and more diverse. We developed a mechanistic model for minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) to measure the effects of behavioral disturbances caused by whalewatching activities on fetal growth. The model illustrates the pathway through which behaviorally mediated effects of anthropogenic disturbance might influence female reproductive success in an iteroparous capital breeding mammal. We found that although the behavioral disruptions caused by whalewatching interactions were substantial, the cumulative exposure of individuals to whalewatching boats was low, resulting in an effect on fetal growth no different from natural variability. This highlights the importance of considering all aspects of disturbance when evaluating effects of human disturbance on wildlife. Our mechanistic model can also be used to simulate different management scenarios to predict the long‐term consequence of disturbance on vital rates, to help inform management decisions.
Preparation and properties of Fe(II)‐ion‐sensitive colour‐changing fabric
Authors: Lin Junxiong , Tan Zhixin , Zhang Jiawen , Wang Lan
Published: March 2015

Textile fabrics were dyed with complexometric indicators (ionochromic dyes) to develop Fe(II) ionochromic fabric. Three kinds of ionochromic dye were used to dye silk fabric, and they were evaluated for colour changes triggered by Fe(II) solution. The K/S values and photos of the fabrics were then recorded. It was found that 1,10‐phenanthroline was the most suitable ionochromic dye in these dyes. Colour change from white to red could be clearly seen when 1,10‐phenanthroline‐dyed silk fabric was triggered by Fe(II) solution, but it showed no colour change when triggered by Cu(II), Mg(II), or Ca(II) solution. Moreover, 1,10‐phenanthroline‐dyed nylon, polyester, and cotton fabrics showed no obvious colour changes after triggering by Fe(II) solution. Ion concentration, pH value, and reaction time could affect the colour changes. When triggered by 8 mg l−1 of Fe(II) solution at neutral pH for about 15 min, the ionochromic fabric showed a clear colour change. In addition, three coloured fabrics in green, blue, and yellow were also dyed with 1,10‐phenanthroline. It was found that they could also show clear colour changes when triggered by Fe(II) solution. These ionochromic fabrics may find broad application in many fields, such as Fe(II) detection, magic toys, anticounterfeiting materials, and bionic silk flowers.
Heart rate variability stabilization in athletes: towards more convenient data acquisition
Authors: Flatt Andrew A. , Esco Michael R.
Published: March 2015

Resting heart rate variability (HRV) is a potentially useful marker to consider for monitoring training status in athletes. However, traditional HRV data collection methodology requires a 5‐min recording period preceded by a 5‐min stabilization period. This lengthy process may limit HRV monitoring in the field due to time constraints and high compliance demands of athletes. Investigation into more practical methodology for HRV data acquisitions is required. The aim of this study was to determine the time course for stabilization of ECG‐derived lnRMSSD from traditional HRV recordings. Ten‐minute supine ECG measures were obtained in ten male and ten female collegiate cross‐country athletes. The first 5 min for each ECG was separately analysed in successive 1‐min intervals as follows: minutes 0–1 (lnRMSSD0–1), 1–2 (lnRMSSD1–2), 2–3 (lnRMSSD2–3), 3–4 (lnRMSSD3–4) and 4–5 (lnRMSSD4–5). Each 1‐min lnRMSSD segment was then sequentially compared to lnRMSSD of the 5‐ to 10‐min ECG segment, which was considered the criterion (lnRMSSDCriterion). There were no significant differences between each 1‐min lnRMSSD segment and lnRMSSDCriterion, and the effect sizes were considered trivial (ES ranged from 0·07 to 0·12). In addition, the ICC for each 1‐min segment compared to the criterion was near perfect (ICC values ranged from 0·92 to 0·97). The limits of agreement between the prerecording values and lnRMSSDCriterion ranged from ±0·28 to ±0·45 ms. These results lend support to shorter, more convenient ECG recording procedures for lnRMSSD assessment in athletes by reducing the prerecording stabilization period to 1 min.
Clinical pathway to discharge 3 days after colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Tomiki Yuichi , Kawai Masaya , Takehara Kazuhiro , Tashiro Yoshihiko , Munakata Shinya , Kure Kazumasa , Ishiyama Shun , Sugimoto Kiichi , Kamiyama Hirohiko , Takahashi Makoto , Sakamoto Kazuhiro
Published: March 2015

Background and Aim

Colorectal endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is a useful treatment method; however, no index has been established for time for patient to start food ingestion or be discharged after ESD. We investigated the potential of a clinical pathway in which patients started food ingestion on day 2 after ESD and were discharged on day 3.

Methods

A total of 382 patients underwent colorectal ESD between 2006 and 2012. A flow chart of a clinical pathway was prepared based on the data obtained, with the aim of shortening hospital stay after ESD.

Results

Mean duration of postoperative hospital stay in the 382 patients was 5.3 ± 1.8 days. The most common cause of extended hospital stay was abnormal blood test finding, as detected in 50 patients in group C (n = 131; 38.2%), followed by careful course observations, as noted in 48 patients in group C (n = 131; 36.6%). Regarding procedural accidents as a result of ESD, intraoperative perforation occurred in 15 patients (3.9%) and post‐ESD bleeding in seven patients (1.8%), which extended the hospital stay. Food ingestion was started on day 2 when no abnormality was noted during ESD or in physical and imaging findings or blood tests on day 1. In the 86 patients who underwent the prepared clinical pathway as a validation study, 68 (79.0%) were discharged on day 3. Duration of postoperative hospital stay was 3.4 ± 1.2 days.

Conclusion

Discharge may be possible 3 days after ESD when no abnormalities are noted during ESD or on post‐ESD day 1.
The Spemann organizer meets the anterior‐most neuroectoderm at the equator of early gastrulae in amphibian species
Authors: Yanagi Takanori , Ito Kenta , Nishihara Akiha , Minamino Reika , Mori Shoko , Sumida Masayuki , Hashimoto Chikara
Published: March 2015

The dorsal blastopore lip (known as the Spemann organizer) is important for making the body plan in amphibian gastrulation. The organizer is believed to involute inward and migrate animally to make physical contact with the prospective head neuroectoderm at the blastocoel roof of mid‐ to late‐gastrula. However, we found that this physical contact was already established at the equatorial region of very early gastrula in a wide variety of amphibian species. Here we propose a unified model of amphibian gastrulation movement. In the model, the organizer is present at the blastocoel roof of blastulae, moves vegetally to locate at the region that lies from the blastocoel floor to the dorsal lip at the onset of gastrulation. The organizer located at the blastocoel floor contributes to the anterior axial mesoderm including the prechordal plate, and the organizer at the dorsal lip ends up as the posterior axial mesoderm. During the early step of gastrulation, the anterior organizer moves to establish the physical contact with the prospective neuroectoderm through the “subduction and zippering” movements. Subduction makes a trench between the anterior organizer and the prospective neuroectoderm, and the tissues face each other via the trench. Zippering movement, with forming Brachet's cleft, gradually closes the gap to establish the contact between them. The contact is completed at the equator of early gastrulae and it continues throughout the gastrulation. After the contact is established, the dorsal axis is formed posteriorly, but not anteriorly. The model also implies the possibility of constructing a common model of gastrulation among chordate species.
Contract Governance in the EU: Conceptualising the Relationship between Investor Protection Regulation and Private Law
Authors: Cherednychenko Olha O.
Published: March 2015

The instrumental use of private law, in particular contract law, by the EU raises a complex issue concerning the relationship between contract‐related regulation and traditional private law and underlines the need for conceptualising the interplay between the two from the contract governance perspective. The present article aims to apply this new analytical approach in the investment services field where there is considerable tension between the EU investor protection regulation embodied in the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID I and MiFID II) and national private laws. The article explores various models of relationship between investor protection regulation and traditional private law within a multi‐level EU legal order, considering the strengths and weaknesses of each field in pursuing public and private interests involved in financial contracting. This analysis also offers some lessons for the broader narrative of how European integration in regulated areas dominated by public supervision and enforcement could proceed.
Attachment and Family Processes in Children's Psychological Adjustment in Middle Childhood
Authors: Demby Kimberly P. , Riggs Shelley A. , Kaminski Patricia L.
Published: March 2015

This study examined the links between parent–child attachment, whole family interaction patterns, and child emotional adjustment and adaptability in a sample of 86 community families with children between the ages of 8 and 11 years. Family interactions were observed and coded with the System for Coding Interactions and Family Functioning (SCIFF; Lindahl, 2001). Both parents and each target child completed the appropriate form of the Behavior Assessment System for Children‐2nd Edition (BASC‐2; Reynolds & Kamphaus, 2004). Target children also completed the Children's Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CCSQ; Yunger, Corby, & Perry, 2005). Hierarchical multiple regressions indicated that Secure mother–child attachment was a robust predictor of children's emotional symptoms, but father–child attachment strategies were not significant independent predictors. Positive Affect in family interactions significantly increased the amount of variance accounted for in children's emotional symptoms. In addition, Family Cohesion and Positive Affect moderated the relationship between father–child attachment and children's emotional symptoms. When data from all BASC‐2 informants (mother, father, child) were considered simultaneously and multidimensional constructs were modeled, mother–child security directly predicted children's adjustment and adaptive skills, but the influence of father–child security was fully mediated through positive family functioning. Results of the current study support the utility of considering dyadic attachment and family interaction patterns conjointly when conceptualizing and fostering positive emotional and behavioral outcomes in children.
How fast‐growing bacteria robustly tune their ribosome concentration to approximate growth‐rate maximization
Authors: Bosdriesz Evert , Molenaar Douwe , Teusink Bas , Bruggeman Frank J.
Published: March 2015

Maximization of growth rate is an important fitness strategy for bacteria. Bacteria can achieve this by expressing proteins at optimal concentrations, such that resources are not wasted. This is exemplified for Escherichia coli by the increase of its ribosomal protein‐fraction with growth rate, which precisely matches the increased protein synthesis demand. These findings and others have led to the hypothesis that E. coli aims to maximize its growth rate in environments that support growth. However, what kind of regulatory strategy is required for a robust, optimal adjustment of the ribosome concentration to the prevailing condition is still an open question. In the present study, we analyze the ppGpp‐controlled mechanism of ribosome expression used by E. coli and show that this mechanism maintains the ribosomes saturated with its substrates. In this manner, overexpression of the highly abundant ribosomal proteins is prevented, and limited resources can be redirected to the synthesis of other growth‐promoting enzymes. It turns out that the kinetic conditions for robust, optimal protein‐partitioning, which are required for growth rate maximization across conditions, can be achieved with basic biochemical interactions. We show that inactive ribosomes are the most suitable ‘signal’ for tracking the intracellular nutritional state and for adjusting gene expression accordingly, as small deviations from optimal ribosome concentration cause a huge fractional change in ribosome inactivity. We expect to find this control logic implemented across fast‐growing microbial species because growth rate maximization is a common selective pressure, ribosomes are typically highly abundant and thus costly, and the required control can be implemented by a small, simple network.
Preparation of an engineered safer immunotoxin against colon carcinoma based on the ribotoxin hirsutellin A
Authors: Tomé‐Amat Jaime , Herrero‐Galán Elías , Oñaderra Mercedes , Martínez‐del‐Pozo Álvaro , Gavilanes José G. , Lacadena Javier
Published: March 2015

Immunotoxins are chimeric proteins composed of an antibody domain that specifically directs the action of the toxic domain, resulting in the death of the targeted cells. Over recent years, immunotoxins have been widely studied and the number of different constructions has increased exponentially. Protein engineering has allowed the design of optimized versions of immunotoxins with an improved tumor binding affinity, stability or cytotoxic efficacy, although sometimes this has compromised the safety of the patient in terms of undesirable adverse secondary reactions. A triple mutant at three Trp residues (HtA3ΔW) of the ribotoxin hirsutellin A retains its specific ribonucleolytic activity, although cell internalization capacity is lacking. This toxin variant has been fused to the single chain variable fragment A33 (scFvA33). This immunoconjugate (IMTXA33HtA3ΔW) was produced in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris and purified using nickel‐nitrilotriacetic acid affinity chromatography. Both target and toxic domains were characterized. The immunotoxin showed an exquisite specific binding against GPA33‐positive culture cells, which results in the death of the targeted cells because of specific ribonucleolytic activity against ribosomes of the engineered hirsutellin A variant. IMTXA33HtA3ΔW represents a promising structure in the search for an improved immunotoxin without compromising the safety of patients.
Oral health status in children and adolescents with haemophilia
Authors: Othman N. A. A. , Sockalingam S. N. M. P. , Mahyuddin A.
Published: March 2015

This case‐controlled study aimed to evaluate the existing oral health status in children and adolescents with haemophilia. A total of 50 haemophilia patients and 50 matched controls aged seven to 16 years were recruited into the study. Clinical examination was carried out to determine dental caries experience, oral hygiene status and gingival condition in these two groups. Information regarding previous dental history, oral hygiene practices and dietary habits were also obtained. No significant difference was found in mean caries experience in primary and secondary dentitions (P = 0.86 and 0.32) and in Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI‐S, P = 0.20) between both groups. However, a significantly higher proportion of haemophilia patients (24%) had better oral hygiene status as compared to the controls (2%, P = 0.004). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in Modified Gingival Index (MGI, P = 0.02) between the two groups with the study group having less gingival inflammation. A total of 88% (n = 44) of the haemophilia patients were registered and received dental treatment in specialist dental clinics. More than half (56%, n = 28) had frequent dental visits and only one‐third of the haemophilia patients had history of hospitalization due to oral problems. There was no significant difference in oral hygiene practices and dietary habits between both groups. In general, haemophilia children and adolescents in this study had similar caries experience, a significantly better oral hygiene status and gingival health as compared to healthy controls. The main reason for this is the multidisciplinary approach implemented by medical health‐care professionals as primary care provider and the dental team.
Identification of antrodin B from Antrodia camphorata as a new anti‐hepatofibrotic compound using a rapid cell screening method and biological evaluation
Authors: Geng Yan , Wang Jing , Sun Qing , Xie Minfeng , Lu Zhen‐Ming , Xu Hong‐yu , Shi Jin‐Song , Xu Zheng‐Hong
Published: March 2015

Aim

Liver fibrosis is the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) resulting from chronic liver diseases. Efficient and well‐tolerated drugs for its treatment are urgently needed. This study aims to identify the active ingredients of Antrodia camphorata by a bioassay‐guided fractionation approach and explore the acting mechanism by using a hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line CFSC‐8B stimulated by transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1).

Methods

The accumulation of collagens was evaluated using chromogenic precipitation reaction with picro‐sirius red (PSR) dye solution and quantified by spectrophotometric analysis of the dissolved stain. MTT assay, cell migration assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting analysis were used to determine the cell viability, cell migration and gene expression.

Results

We established a rapid colorimetric assay suitable for screening of anti‐hepatofibrotic reagents. Stimulation with 10 ng/mL TGF‐β1 for 48 h and 200 μL PSR dye solution were optimal for the colorimetric assay in CFSC‐8B cells. We used SB431542, silybin and another 11 antifibrotic reagents to verify the cellular model. Within the safe doses, they attenuated ECM production induced by TGF‐β1. Bioactivity‐guided fractionation led to the identification of antrodin B from A. camphorata. Antrodin B significantly ameliorated cell proliferation, cell migration, suppressed HSC activation marker α‐smooth muscle actin expression and ECM components Col1, Col3 and Fn expression, and blocked the phosphorylation of Smad2/3 induced by TGF‐β1 in CFSC‐8B cells in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

We developed a simple assay based on TGF‐β1‐induced total collagen accumulation in CFSC‐8B cells and identified antrodin B which may serve as a potential candidate for treatment of liver fibrosis.
A home‐based training programme improves family caregivers’ oral care practices with stroke survivors: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kuo Y‐W , Yen M , Fetzer S , Chiang L‐C , Shyu Y‐IL , Lee T‐H , Ma H‐I
Published: March 2015

Objectives

Stroke survivors experience poor oral health when discharged from the hospital to the community. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a home‐based oral care training programme on knowledge, attitude, self‐efficacy and practice behaviour of family caregivers.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted. The experimental group consisted of 48 family caregivers who received the home‐based oral care training programme, and the control group consisted of 46 family caregivers who received routine oral care education. The outcomes were measured by the Knowledge of Oral Care, Attitude towards Oral Care, Self‐Efficacy of Oral Care and Behaviour of Oral Care before the training programme, and at one and two months afterwards. The data were analysed using mixed model anova to determine differences in the outcomes between the two groups.

Results

The findings demonstrated that the intervention group had more knowledge (t = 8.80, P < 0. 001), greater self‐efficacy (t = 3.53, P < 0.01) and better oral care behaviour (t = 11.93, P < 0.001) than the control group at one and two months, with statistically significant differences in oral care knowledge, self‐efficacy and behaviour outcome over time. The attitude of the intervention group towards oral care practice was generally positive (mean of baseline and two month = 12.9 and 14.7), but no significant difference in attitude change between the control and intervention groups (t = 1.56, P = 0.12). The treatment interaction effect was significant for the family caregivers’ behaviour of oral care at one and two months of the intervention for both groups.

Conclusion

Our individualized home‐based oral care education can achieve significant improvements in oral care knowledge and self‐efficacy among family caregivers of stroke survivors, and it can sufficiently empower them to modify their oral care practices in a home‐based healthcare environment.
Community pharmacists’ role in benzodiazepine supply in Ireland: a questionnaire of pharmacists’ views and experiences
Authors: Cadogan Cathal A , Ryder Sheila A
Published: March 2015

Objective

To investigate the views and experiences of community pharmacists in Ireland regarding their role in benzodiazepine supply and the potential for role expansion.

Methods

A postal questionnaire was issued to a random, geographically stratified sample of community pharmacies in Ireland.

Key findings

The response rate was 37.6%. Pharmacists’ awareness of the national source of benzodiazepine guidelines was low (26.6% previously aware). Benzodiazepine prescriptions were frequently encountered in practice and commonly for extended durations of 28 days. Pharmacists’ involvement in roles extending beyond dispensing was limited. In the 6 months prior to the questionnaire, fewer than half of pharmacists reported having suggested discontinuation to a patient (43.7%) or having contacted a prescriber about a patient’s benzodiazepine use (47.1%). Pharmacists acknowledged their potential to undertake a more extensive role in benzodiazepine supply and expressed willingness to do so in practice.

Conclusions

This study adds to the limited body of existing literature regarding community pharmacists’ role in benzodiazepine supply. The findings indicate the need to revisit existing benzodiazepine guidelines to improve pharmacists’ awareness of them and to address long-term prescribing. The apparent lack of active pharmacist involvement in roles and activities extending beyond dispensing needs to be addressed. Given that most pharmacists encountered benzodiazepine prescriptions at least once daily in practice, they are well positioned to promote safe and appropriate benzodiazepine use. Sizeable proportions of pharmacists expressed willingness to expand upon their existing role and facilitate long-term patients in attempting discontinuation. Further research is needed to explore barriers and facilitators to pharmacists undertaking extended roles in benzodiazepine supply in greater detail.
FAmily-Led RehabiliTaTion aftEr Stroke in INDia: The ATTEND Pilot Study
Authors: Pandian Jeyaraj D. , Felix Cynthia , Kaur Paramdeep , Sharma Deepika , Julia Lizzie , Toor Gagan , Arora Rajni , Gandhi Dorcas B.C. , Verma Shweta J. , Anderson Craig S. , Langhorne Peter , Murthy G.V.S. , Hackett Maree L. , Maulik Pallab K. , Alim Mohammed , Harvey Lisa A. , Jan Stephen , Walker Marion , Forster Anne , Lindley Richard
Published: March 2015

Background

The aim of this pilot study was to determine the feasibility of a multicenter, randomized, controlled trial in India of a family-led, trained caregiver-delivered, home-based rehabilitation intervention vs. routine care.

Methods

A prospective, randomized (within seven-days of hospital admission), blinded outcome assessor, controlled trial of structured home-based rehabilitation delivered by trained and protocol-guided family caregivers (intervention) vs. routine care alone (control) was conducted in patients with residual disability. Key feasibility measures were recruitment, acceptance and adherence to assessment procedures, and follow-up of participants over six-months. CTRI/2014/10/005133.

Results

A total of 104 patients from the stroke unit at Christian Medical College, Ludhiana were recruited over nine-months. Recruitment was feasible and accepted by patients and their carers. Important observations were made regarding potential unblinding of the participants, contamination of therapy between the randomized groups, organization of home visits, and resources required for a multicenter study.

Conclusion

The pilot study established the feasibility of conducting a large-scale study of family-led, trained caregiver-delivered, home-based stroke rehabilitation in a low resource setting. The main phase of the trial ‘ATTEND’ is currently underway in over 10 centers in India.
Evaluation of angiogenesis, epithelialisation and microcirculation after application of polyhexanide, chitosan and sodium chloride in rodents
Authors: Goertz Ole , Lauer Henrik , Hirsch Tobias , Daigeler Adrien , Harati Kamran , Stricker Ingo , Lehnhardt Marcus , von der Lohe Leon
Published: March 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of polyhexanide and a new developed chitin‐based wound dressing on skin microcirculation, epithelialisation and angiogenesis. A full‐thickness dermal layer extending to the underlying cartilage was excised on the dorsal side of hairless mice (n = 27; 2·3 ± 0·3 mm2). A polyhexanide ointment, a chitosan solution and a sodium chloride group as control were analysed using intravital fluorescence microscopy. Angiogenesis, epithelialisation and microcirculatory standard parameters were measured over a time period of 20 days. The non‐perfused area is regarded as a parameter for angiogenesis and showed the following results: on days 12, 16 and 20, the sodium chloride group was significantly superior to chitosan solution (P < 0·05) and, on days 8, 12, 16 and 20, the polyhexanide group was superior to chitosan solution (P < 0·05). The epithelialisation was measured significantly faster in the polyhexanide and control group on day 8 versus chitosan solution. Whereas polyhexanide and sodium chloride were nearly completely epithelialised, treatment with chitosan solution showed still an open wound of 11% of the initial wound size. Altogether, we could demonstrate the advantageous effects of a polyhexanide ointment on microcirculation, angiogenesis and epithelialisation. Chitosan solution appears to inhibit angiogenesis and delays epithelialisation. Further studies in different models would be worthwhile to confirm these results.
Effects of CO2 Enrichment and Drought on Photosynthesis, Growth and Yield of an Old and a Modern Barley Cultivar
Authors: Schmid I. , Franzaring J. , Müller M. , Brohon N. , Calvo O. C. , Högy P. , Fangmeier A.
Published: March 2015

Susceptibility of crops to drought may change under atmospheric CO2 enrichment. We tested the effects of CO2 enrichment and drought on the older malting barley cultivar Golden Promise (GP) and the recent variety Bambina (BA). Hypothesizing that CO2 enrichment mitigates the adverse effects of drought and that GP shows a stronger response to CO2 enrichment than BA, plants of both cultivars were grown in climate chambers. Optimal and reduced watering levels and two CO2 concentrations (380 and 550 ppm) were used to investigate photosynthetic parameters, growth and yield. In contrast to expectations, CO2 increased total plant biomass by 34 % in the modern cultivar while the growth stimulation was not significant in GP. As a reaction to drought, BA showed reduced biomass under elevated CO2, which was not seen in GP. Grain yield and harvest index (HI) were negatively influenced by drought and increased by CO2 enrichment. BA formed higher grain yield and had higher water‐use efficiency of grain yield and HI compared to GP. CO2 fertilization compensated for the negative effect of drought on grain yield and HI, especially in GP. Stomatal conductance proved to be the gas exchange parameter most sensitive to drought. Photosynthetic rate of BA showed more pronounced reaction to drought compared to GP. Overall, BA turned out to respond more intense to changes in water supply and CO2 enrichment than the older GP.
Increasing self‐esteem and empathy to prevent violent radicalization: a longitudinal quantitative evaluation of a resilience training focused on adolescents with a dual identity
Authors: Feddes Allard R. , Mann Liesbeth , Doosje Bertjan
Published: March 2015

Quantitative results are reported of a longitudinal evaluation of a resilience training as a possible method to prevent violent radicalization (Diamant; SIPI, 2010). A total of 46 male and female Muslim adolescents and young adults with a migrant background participated. Results show that the training significantly increased participants' reports of agency and a marginal increase was found in reported self‐esteem, empathy and perspective taking but also narcissism. Attitudes toward ideology‐based violence and own violent intentions were significantly lower after the training than before. Higher reports of empathy were related to less positive attitudes toward ideology‐based violence. These results suggest that an intervention aimed at empowering individuals in combination with strengthening empathy is successful in countering violent radicalization.