bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of insulin lispro mix 25 with insulin lispro mix 50 as an insulin starter in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes: a phase 4, open‐label, randomized trial (CLASSIFY study)
Authors: Watada Hirotaka , Su Qing , Li Peng Fei , Iwamoto Noriyuki , Qian Lei , Yang Wen Ying
Published: May 2016

Background

Lispro Mix 25% insulin lispro/75% insulin lispro protamine (LM25) and Lispro Mix 50% insulin lispro/50% insulin lispro protamine (LM50) were compared as starter insulins in East Asian patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Phase 4, open‐label, randomized trial conducted in China, Japan, Korea, and Turkey. Subjects received twice‐daily LM25 (n = 207) or LM50 (n = 196) for 26 weeks. The primary outcome was the HbA1c change from baseline.

Results

The least squares mean changes from baseline in HbA1c are −1.52% and −1.69% for LM25 and LM50, respectively, and the least squares mean difference [95% CI] is 0.17% [−0.01, 0.35]. More subjects in the LM50 group than in the LM25 group achieved HbA1c targets of <7.0% (59.7% versus 45.9%, respectively; p = 0.007). LM50 was more effective than LM25 in reducing postprandial glucose after the morning (mean difference in change from baseline, 0.56 mmol/L; p = 0.038) and evening (1.11 mmol/L; p < 0.001) meals. The reduction in fasting blood glucose was significantly greater (p = 0.046) in the LM25 group (LS mean [95% CI] change from baseline: −2.37 mmol/L [−2.68, −2.06]) than in the LM50 group (−1.99 mmol/L [−2.30, −1.68]). LM50 was more effective than LM25 in reducing HbA1c in subjects with baseline HbA1c, postprandial glucose, or carbohydrate intake levels greater than the median levels. Hypoglycemia rates and weight gain were similar between groups.

Conclusions

LM25 and LM50 were noninferior to each other in improving glycemic control in Asian patients with type 2 diabetes. In addition, LM50 was more efficacious than LM25 with respect to the percentage of subjects reaching target HbA1c levels. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vitamin D deficiency increases the risk of peripheral neuropathy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: He Rui , Hu Yanyun , Zeng Hui , Zhao Jun , Zhao Jungong , Chai Yimin , Lu Fengdi , Liu Fang , Jia Weiping
Published: May 2016

Background

Vitamin D deficiency was reported to be associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. But the association in Chinese population and the screening value of vitamin D deficiency for diabetic peripheral neuropathy were unknown.

Methods

A total of 861 patients with type 2 diabetes were recruited in this cross‐sectional study. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as serum circulating 25‐hydroxyvitamin D(25(OH)D) level < 20 ng/mL. Peripheral neuropathy was evaluated by neurological symptoms, neurological signs, neurothesiometer and electromyogram.

Results

The patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy had significantly lower serum 25(OH)D concentration (15.59 ± 7.68 ng/mL) and higher prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (80%) than patients with signs of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (17.66 ± 7.50 ng/mL; 64.5%) and non‐DPN patients (18.35 ± 6.60; 61.7%) (all p < 0.01). Spearman's correlation analysis showed that serum circulating 25(OH)D level was closely associated with DPN (r = 0.121) and signs of DPN (r = 0.111) (both p < 0.01). After adjusting for all potential confounders, VDD was still linked with increased risk of DPN [odds ratio 2.59 (1.48–4.53)] (p < 0.01). Logistical regression analysis further revealed that VDD was an independent risk factor for DPN (β = 0.88) (p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that serum 25(OH)D < 17.22 ng/mL hinted the signs of DPN and serum 25(OH)D < 16.01 ng/mL predicted the occurrence of DPN (both p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Vitamin D deficiency is an independent risk factor for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and may be a potential biomarker for peripheral neuropathy in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Muscle fatigability in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Orlando Giorgio , Balducci Stefano , Bazzucchi Ilenia , Pugliese Giuseppe , Sacchetti Massimo
Published: May 2016

Background

Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) may be subject to premature muscle fatigue. However, the effect of diabetes on muscle fatigability has not yet been thoroughly examined. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of T2D on muscle fatigability at the upper and lower body.

Methods

Thirty‐three T2D patients (18 men and 15 women; mean age, 59.3 ± 5.3 years) and 34 matched healthy control participants (17 men and 17 women; mean age, 60.1 ± 6.1 years) were recruited. Clinical characteristics of diabetic patients were assessed by considering a wide range of vascular and neurological parameters in order to exclude the presence of micro‐ and macro‐vascular complications. Gender‐specific muscle function was evaluated measuring the maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVIC), and the endurance time at 50% of the MVIC at the shoulder and at the knee extensor muscles.

Results

Muscle strength in the upper body was similar among groups, whereas in the lower body, it was significantly reduced in T2D men (−16%) and women (−22%) compared with the controls. Additionally, the endurance time in both upper and lower body was significantly lower in T2D men (−18% and −29%) and women (−19% and −25%, respectively) than controls.

Conclusions

Besides the reduction in strength, muscle dysfunction in T2D is characterized by a higher fatigability that affects both upper and lower body muscles. This effect is independent to the presence of diabetic complications and may represent a more sensitive marker of muscular dysfunction than muscle strength. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plant density can increase invertebrate postdispersal seed predation in an experimental grassland community
Authors: Dudenhöffer Jan‐Hendrik , Pufal Gesine , Roscher Christiane , Klein Alexandra‐Maria
Published: May 2016

Janzen–Connell effects are negative effects on the survival of a plant's progeny at high conspecific densities or close to its conspecifics. Although the role of Janzen–Connell effects on the maintenance of plant diversity was frequently studied, only few studies targeted Janzen–Connell effects via postdispersal seed predation in temperate grassland systems. We examined effects of conspecific density (abundance of conspecific adult plants) on postdispersal seed predation by invertebrates of three grassland species (Centaurea jacea, Geranium pratense, and Knautia arvensis) in experimental plant communities. Additionally, we examined the impact of plant species richness and different seed predator communities on total and relative seed predation (= seed predation of one plant species relative to others). We offered seeds in an exclusion experiment, where treatments allowed access for (1) arthropods and slugs, (2) arthropods only, (3) small arthropods only, and (4) slugs only. Treatments were placed in plots covering a gradient of abundance of conspecific adults at different levels of plant species richness (1, 2, 3, 4, 8 species). Two of the plant species (C. jacea and K. arvensis) experienced higher rates of seed predation and relative predation with increasing abundance of conspecific adults. For C. jacea, this effect was mitigated with increasing plant species richness. Differences in seed predator communities shifted seed predation between the plant species and changed the magnitude of seed predation of one plant species relative to the others. We exemplify density‐dependent increase in seed predation via invertebrates in grassland communities shaping both the total magnitude of species‐specific seed predation and seed predation of one species relative to others. Further differences in seed predator groups shift the magnitude of seed predation between different plant species. This highlights the importance of invertebrate seed predation to structure grasslands via density‐dependent effects and differing preferences of consumer groups.
Productivity and species richness in longleaf pine woodlands: resource‐disturbance influences across an edaphic gradient
Authors: Kirkman L. K. , Giencke L. M. , Taylor R. S. , Boring L. R. , Staudhammer C. L. , Mitchell R. J.
Published: May 2016

This study examines the complex feedback mechanisms that regulate a positive relationship between species richness and productivity in a longleaf pine‐wiregrass woodland. Across a natural soil moisture gradient spanning wet‐mesic to xeric conditions, two large scale manipulations over a 10‐yr period were used to determine how limiting resources and fire regulate plant species diversity and productivity at multiple scales. A fully factorial experiment was used to examine productivity and species richness responses to N and water additions. A separate experiment examined standing crop and richness responses to N addition in the presence and absence of fire. Specifically, these manipulations addressed the following questions: (1) How do N and water addition influence annual aboveground net primary productivity of the midstory/overstory and ground cover? (2) How do species richness responses to resource manipulations vary with scale and among functional groups of ground cover species? (3) How does standing crop (including overstory, understory/midstory, and ground cover components) differ between frequently burned and fire excluded plots after a decade without fire? (4) What is the role of fire in regulating species richness responses to N addition? This long‐term study across a soil moisture gradient provides empirical evidence that species richness and productivity in longleaf pine woodlands are strongly regulated by soil moisture. After a decade of treatment, there was an overall species richness decline with N addition, an increase in richness of some functional groups with irrigation, and a substantial decline in species richness with fire exclusion. Changes in species richness in response to treatments were scale‐dependent, occurring primarily at small scales (≤10 m2). Further, with fire exclusion, standing crop of ground cover decreased with N addition and non‐pine understory/midstory increased in wet‐mesic sites. Non‐pine understory/midstory standing crop increased in xeric sites with fire exclusion, but there was no influence of N addition. This study highlights the complexity of interactions among multiple limiting resources, frequent fire, and characteristics of dominant functional groups that link species richness and productivity.
Oxidative stability of omega‐3 tablets
Authors: Vestland Tina Lien , Petersen Lizette Balle , Myrset Astrid Hilde , Klaveness Jo
Published: May 2016

Preparing solid formulations, as powder and tablets, containing omega‐3 can be challenging as the necessary production processes expose the unsaturated omega‐3 fatty acids to high temperatures, light, and mechanical stress in presence of air. The present work demonstrates that omega‐3 tablets can be prepared with sufficiently low total oxidation values (totox) to satisfy relevant monographs for omega‐3 products. The tablets were prepared from spray granulated direct compaction grade 30% w/w triglyceride powders as characterized by Vestland, Jacobsen, Sande, Myrset, and Klaveness, 2015 (Food Chem. 2015. 185: p. 151–158; Food Chem., 2016. 197, Part A: p. 496–502). Addition of ascorbic acid, in combination with EDTA as processing agent, was correlated with lower totox in powders. Spray granulation performed under nitrogen atmosphere contributed to significantly decreased totox in powders after 8 months of storage at accelerated temperature (37°C) compared to spray granulation in air. In long‐term stability studies, it was confirmed that coated omega‐3 tablets remained at totox <5 after 1 year of storage at ambient temperature.

Practical applications: The confirmation that oxidative stable omega‐3 tablets can be produced opens the possibility for a new administration form in the omega‐3 field. The use of dry powders in the production process imply more opportunities within combination products as dry powders typically exhibit fewer compatibility issues. Omega‐3 tablets are a gelatin‐ and lactose‐free alternative for health conscious individuals all over the world.

The most frequently used formulation form for health supplements is tablets, however, to date there have been numerous issues with achieving sufficient oil load and maintain oxidative stability trying to formulate omega‐3 oil in tablets. Totox 26 is the limit set by the Global Organization for EPA and DHA (GOED) for omega‐3 supplement for human use (yellow line). As presented in this figure, omega‐3 tablets with 30% w/w triglyceride oil load (60% concentrate) have been prepared and totox have maintained lower than 26 for tablets kept at 37°C for 1 year. The data so far obtained from the long‐term stability study (tablet samples kept at ambient conditions) indicate the possibility for a +3 years shelf life for the omega‐3 tablets.
Tissue tocopherol status, meat lipid stability, and serum lipids in broiler chickens fed Artemisia annua
Authors: Panda Arun K. , Cherian Gita
Published: May 2016

Growing consumer concern about the use of synthetic feed additives, there is elevated interest in using phytogenic compounds in poultry feeds. The effect of Artemisia annua (A. annua) in broiler diets on tissue tocopherols, lipid peroxidation products, serum triglycerides, and non‐esterified fatty acids were determined. It is hypothesized that dietary A. annua will enhance tocopherols and will reduce lipid peroxidation products in chicken meat. Broiler chicks (n = 52) were fed corn‐soy diets containing 0 (Control) or 2% dried A. annua leaves (ART). Dietary ART led to increase in γ‐, α‐, and total tocopherols in muscle and liver (P < 0.0001). A three‐ and fourfold increase in γ‐, α‐ tocopherol compared to Control was found in breast muscle of chickens fed ART (P < 0.001). No increase in α‐ tocopherol was found in serum, whereas, γ‐tocopherol increased in the serum of chicken fed ART (P < 0.001). Lipid peroxidation products measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, were lower in the muscle and serum of birds fed ART than Control (P < 0.0001). Even serum triglycerides and non‐esterified fatty acids were lower in such birds ART (P < 0.001). No difference was found in total fat, saturated or n‐6 and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid content of liver and muscle (P > 0.05). No difference was observed in body weight, relative weight of liver, heart, spleen, and bursa. A. annua may prove useful as a natural phytogenic feed additive with antioxidant potential that could be incorporated into poultry diets and such meat could serve as an alternate route for providing vitamin E in human diets.

Practical applications: Consumers are interested in buying meat from chickens fed plant‐based phytogenic products. A. annua is rich sources of natural antioxidants. Feeding A. annua led to tocopherol enrichment while enhancing the lipid stability in poultry meat. A. annua may be used a functional feed additive in poultry rations.

Artemisia annua could be useful as a natural phytogenic feed additive with antioxidant potential that could be incorporated into poultry diets and such meat could serve as an alternate route for providing vitamin E in human diets.
Docosahexaenoic acid‐enriched phospholipids exhibit superior effects on obesity‐related metabolic disorders to egg yolk phospholipids and soybean phospholipids in mice
Authors: Liu Xiaofang , Cui Jie , Leng Kailiang , Xue Changhu , Li Zhaojie , Xue Yong , Wang Yuming
Published: May 2016

Bioactive phospholipids (PL) from different origins varied greatly in the chemical constitutions, especially the fatty acid compositions, which might influence its physiological activities in turn. In the study, egg yolk phospholipids (EGG‐PL), soybean phospholipids (SOY‐PL), and marine docosahexaenoic acid‐enriched phospholipids (DHA‐PL) were administered to high fat (HF) diet‐induced obese C57BL/6J mice for 7 weeks to compare their effects on obesity‐related metabolic disorders. EGG‐PL, SOY‐PL, and DHA‐PL significantly decreased epididymal adipose tissue weights, reduced blood pressures and lowered hepatic TG levels. Only DHA‐PL efficiently decreased perirenal adipose tissue weights, and reduced serum glucose, insulin, IL‐6 and TG levels. These three phospholipids significantly decreased delta‐9 desaturation indices, the ratio of oleic acid versus stearic acid, and reduced the enzyme activities and gene expressions of FAS in the liver, while DHA‐PL also markedly reduced mRNA levels of SREBP‐1c and SCD‐1. Hepatic total catalase and peroxisomal β‐oxidation activities were significantly increased after DHA‐PL supplementation. These data indicated that the biological effects of PL with different fatty acid compositions were not completely equivalent and DHA‐PL, rich in n‐3 PUFA, was more efficient in ameliorating obesity‐related metabolic disorders, especially the lipid metabolism, attributing to the better inhibition of SREBP‐1c mediated lipogenesis and the elevation of hepatic lipolysis.

Practical applications: This research gives the public the guidance of the dietary intake of bioactive phospholipids from the perspective of nutrition and it supplies informational support for the development of functional foods containing DHA‐PL participating to the prevention of chronic metabolic diseases in humans. In another aspect, this research also provides an important direction for the development and utilization of marine aquatic raw materials since these materials are the best sources of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched‐phospholipids.

Dietary egg yolk phospholipids, soybean phospholipids, and marine docosahexaenoic acid‐enriched phospholipids (DHA‐PL) could efficiently improve obesity‐related metabolic disorders in mice. Notably, DHA‐PL, rich in n‐3 PUFA, exhibited the best ameliorative effects, especially on the lipid metabolism, which could be attributed to the better inhibition of SREBP‐1c mediated lipogenesis and the elevation of hepatic lipolysis. Such findings would be useful in the development of functional foods containing DHA‐PL participating to prevent chronic metabolic disease in humans.
Root properties of vegetation communities and their impact on the erosion resistance of river dikes
Authors: Vannoppen Wouter , Poesen Jean , Peeters Patrik , De Baets Sarah , Vandevoorde Bart
Published: May 2016

Predicted climate change and the associated sea level rise poses an increased threat of flooding due to wave overtopping events at sea and river dikes. To safeguard the land from flooding it is important to keep the soil erosion resistance at the dikes high. As plant roots can be very effective in reducing soil erosion rates by concentrated flow, the main goal of this study is to explore the variability in root system characteristics of five dike vegetation communities along the Scheldt River (Belgium) and to assess their effectiveness in controlling soil erosion rates during concentrated flow. This study is the first one to investigate systematically the erosion‐reducing potential of the root properties of representative dike vegetation communities in a temperate humid climate.

Results show that the presence of Urtica dioica resulted in large differences in root length density (RLD) among dike vegetation communities. Observed RLD values in the topsoil ranged from 129 to 235 km m‐3 for dike vegetation communities without U. dioica, while smaller values ranging from 22 to 58 km m−3 were found for vegetation communities with U. dioica. The erosion‐reducing effect of the dike vegetation communities was estimated based on a global Hill curve model, linking the RLD to the soil detachment ratio (SDR; i.e. the ratio of the soil detachment rate for root‐permeated topsoils to the soil detachment rate for root‐free topsoils). Concentrated flow erosion rates are likely to be reduced to 13–16% of the erosion rates for root‐free topsoils if U. dioica is absent compared to 22–30% for vegetation communities with U. dioica. Hence, to maintain a high resistance of the soil against concentrated flow erosion it is important to avoid the overgrowth of grassland by U. dioica through an effective vegetation management. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the potential of plant species invasion influencing bio‐geomorphologic landscape formation in salt marshes
Authors: Schwarz Christian , Ysebaert Tom , Vandenbruwaene Wouter , Temmerman Stijn , Zhang LiQuan , Herman Peter M. J.
Published: May 2016

Species invasions are known to change biotic and abiotic ecosystem characteristics such as community structure, cycling of materials and dynamics of rivers. However, their ability to alter interactions between biotic and abiotic ecosystem components, in particular bio‐geomorphic feedbacks and the resulting landscape configuration in tidal wetlands, such as tidal channels have not yet been demonstrated. We studied the impact of altered bio‐geomorphic feedbacks on geomorphologic features (i.e. tidal wetland channels), by comparing proxies for channel network geometry (unchanneled flow lengths, fractal dimension) over time between non‐invaded and invaded salt marsh habitats. The non‐invaded habitats (the south of eastern Chongming Island, Yangtze estuary, China) show little change in network geometry over time with a tendency for an increased drainage density. The invaded site (salt marshes in the north of eastern Chongming Island invaded by the exotic plant species Spartina alterniflora) showed a decreasing tendency in channel drainage density throughout and after the species invasion. This suggests that species invasions might not only affect biotic ecosystem characteristics, but also their ability to change bio‐geomorphic feedback loops, potentially leading to changes in existing geomorphologic features and therefore landscape configuration. Our results further suggest that the species invasion also altered sediment composition. Based on observations we propose a mechanism explaining the change in channel drainage density by an alteration in plant properties. The physical and physiological characteristics of the invading species Spartina alterniflora clearly differ from the native species Scirpus mariqueter, inducing different bio‐geomorphic feedback loops leading to the observed change in salt marsh channel configuration. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantifying groundwater–surface water interactions in a proglacial valley, Cordillera Blanca, Peru
Authors: Somers Lauren D. , Gordon Ryan P. , McKenzie Jeffrey M. , Lautz Laura K. , Wigmore Oliver , Glose AnneMarie , Glas Robin , Aubry‐Wake Caroline , Mark Bryan , Baraer Michel , Condom Thomas
Published: May 2016

A myriad of downstream communities and industries rely on streams fed by both groundwater discharge and glacier meltwater draining the Cordillera Blanca, Northern Peruvian Andes, which contains the highest density of glaciers in the tropics. During the dry season, approximately half the discharge in the region's proglacial streams comes from groundwater. However, because of the remote and difficult access to the region, there are few field methods that are effective at the reach scale to identify the spatial distribution of groundwater discharge. An energy balance model, Rhodamine WT dye tracing, and high‐definition kite‐borne imagery were used to determine gross and net groundwater inputs to a 4‐km reach of the Quilcay River in Huascaran National Park, Peru. The HFLUX computer programme (http://hydrology.syr.edu/hflux.html) was used to simulate the Quilcay River's energy balance using stream temperature observations, meteorological measurements, and kite‐borne areal photography. Inference from the model indicates 29% of stream discharge at the reach outlet was contributed by groundwater discharge over the study section. Rhodamine WT dye tracing results, coupled with the energy balance, show that approximately 49% of stream water is exchanged (no net gain) with the subsurface as gross gains and losses. The results suggest that gross gains from groundwater are largest in a moraine subreach but because of large gross losses, net gains are larger in the meadow subreaches. These insights into pathways of groundwater–surface water interaction can be applied to improve hydrological modelling in proglacial catchments throughout South America. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of river water temperature: a comparison between a new family of hybrid models and statistical approaches
Authors: Piccolroaz Sebastiano , Calamita Elisa , Majone Bruno , Gallice Aurélien , Siviglia Annunziato , Toffolon Marco
Published: May 2016

River water temperature is a key physical variable controlling several chemical, biological and ecological processes. Its reliable prediction is a main issue in many environmental applications, which however is hampered by data scarcity, when using data‐demanding deterministic models, and modelling limitations, when using simpler statistical models. In this work we test a suite of models belonging to air2stream family, which are characterized by a hybrid formulation that combines a physical derivation of the key equation with a stochastic calibration of parameters. The air2stream models rely solely on air temperature and streamflow, and are of similar complexity as standard statistical models.

The performances of the different versions of air2stream in predicting river water temperature are compared with those of the most common statistical models typically used in the literature. To this aim, a dataset of 38 Swiss rivers is used, which includes rivers classified into four different categories according to their hydrological characteristics: low‐land natural rivers, lake outlets, snow‐fed rivers and regulated rivers. The results of the analysis provide practical indications regarding the type of model that is most suitable to simulate river water temperature across different time scales (from daily to seasonal) and for different hydrological regimes. A model intercomparison exercise suggests that the family of air2stream hybrid models generally outperforms statistical models, while cross‐validation conducted over a 30‐year period indicates that they can be suitably adopted for long‐term analyses. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An evaluation of inorganic toxicity reference values for use in assessing hazards to American robins (Turdus migratorius)
Authors: Beyer W Nelson , Sample Bradley E
Published: May 2016

When performing screening-level and baseline risk assessments, assessors usually compare estimated exposures of wildlife receptor species with toxicity reference values (TRVs). We modeled the exposure of American robins (Turdus migratorius) to 10 elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Pb, Se, Zn, and V) in spring and early summer, a time when earthworms are the preferred prey. We calculated soil benchmarks associated with possible toxic effects to these robins from 6 sets of published TRVs. Several of the resulting soil screening-level benchmarks were inconsistent with each other and less than soil background concentrations. Accordingly, we examined the derivations of the TRVs as a possible source of error. In the case of V, a particularly toxic chemical compound (ammonium vanadate) containing V, not normally present in soil, had been used to estimate a TRV. In the cases of Zn and Cu, use of uncertainty values of 10 in estimating TRVs led to implausibly low soil screening values. In the case of Pb, a TRV was calculated from studies demonstrating reductions in egg production in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) exposed to Pb concentrations well below than those causing toxic effects in other species of birds. The results on quail, which were replicated in additional trials, are probably not applicable to other, unrelated species, although we acknowledge that only a small fraction of all species of birds has been tested. These examples underscore the importance of understanding the derivation and relevance of TRVs before selecting them for use in screening or in ecological risk assessment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:352–359. © 2016 SETAC
Case–Control Study on Impact of the Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene Polymorphism and Additional Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP)– SNP Interaction on Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancers Risk in Chinese Han Population
Authors: Xing Yan‐li , Liu Feng , Li Jian‐feng , Lin Jian‐cong , Zhu Guo‐dong , Li Ming , Zhang Chang‐ran , Niu Yuan‐yuan
Published: May 2016

Aims

To investigate the impact of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene polymorphism and additional SNP–SNP interaction on non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) risk in Chinese population.

Methods

A total of 828 participants (526 males, 302 females), with a mean age of 71.3 ± 15.7 years old, were selected, including 410 NSCLC patients and 418 normal participants. Logistic regression was performed to investigate association between single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and NSCLC risk. Generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction (GMDR) was used to analysis the interaction among four SNPs.

Results

Non‐small cell lung cancer risk was significantly higher in carriers of G allele of the rs2736100 polymorphism than those with TT (TG + GG vs. TT, adjusted OR (95%CI = 1.68 (1.28–2.07). In addition, we also found that NSCLC risk was also significantly higher in carriers of A allele of the rs2736098 polymorphism than those with GG (GA + AA vs. GG, adjusted OR (95%CI) = 1.52 (1.19–1.93). GMDR analysis indicated that there was a significant two‐locus model (P = 0.0100) involving rs2736098 and rs2736100, indicating a potential gene–gene interaction between rs2736098 and rs2736100. Overall, the two‐locus models had a cross‐validation consistency of 10 of 10, and had the testing accuracy of 62.17%. We found that patients with GA or AA of rs2736098 and TG or GG of rs2736100 genotype have the highest NSCLC risk, compared to patients with GG of rs2736098 and TT of rs2736100 genotype, OR (95%CI) was 2.52 (1.68–3.68), after covariates adjustment.

Conclusions

Minor allele of rs2736098 and rs2736100 in TERT gene and interaction between the two SNP were associated with increased risk of NSCLC risk.
Ultrasound‐guided perineural injection for nerve blockade: Does a single‐sided injection produce circumferential nerve coverage?
Authors: Nwawka O. Kenechi , Miller Theodore T. , Jawetz Shari T. , Saboeiro Gregory R.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

Our current clinical technique for sonographic‐guided perineural injection consists of two‐sided perineural needle placement to obtain circumferential distribution of the injectate. This study aimed to determine if a single‐side needle position will produce circumferential nerve coverage.

Methods

Fresh‐frozen cadaveric specimens were used for this study. In six upper extremities, a needle was positioned along the deep surface of median, radial, and ulnar nerves in the carpal tunnel, radial tunnel, and cubital tunnel, respectively, and 2 ml of contrast was injected for each nerve. In three pelvic specimens, a needle was positioned deep to the sciatic nerves bilaterally, and 5 ml of contrast was injected. An additional four median nerve injections were performed using superficial surface needle position. The specimens then underwent CT scanning to assess the distribution of the perineural contrast medium.

Results

One hundred percent of the radial, ulnar, and sciatic nerves demonstrated circumferential distribution on CT. Only 50% of the median nerve injections with the needle placed deep to the nerve produced circumferential coverage, whereas 100% of median nerves injected with the needle between the nerve and retinaculum demonstrated circumferential coverage. The average length of spread of perineural injectate was 11.6 cm in the upper extremity and 10.3 cm for the sciatic nerves.

Conclusions

Using clinical volumes of fluid, needle positioning at the deep surface of upper extremity and sciatic nerves was sufficient to produce circumferential coating of the nerve, except in the carpal tunnel, where placement of the needle between the nerve and flexor retinaculum is recommended. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:465–469, 2016
The detection of viable myocardium by low‐dose dobutamine stress speckle tracking echocardiography in patients with old myocardial infarction
Authors: Li Liang , Wang Fengli , Xu Tongda , Chen Junhong , Wang Chaofan , Wang Xiaoping , Li Dongye
Published: May 2016

Purpose

To explore the significance and value of speckle‐tracking echocardiography (STE) associated with low‐dose dobutamine stress echocardiography (LDDSE) for the detection of viable myocardium (VM) in patients with old myocardial infarction (OMI).

Methods

We performed STE with LDDSE in 33 hospitalized patients with OMI and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. QLAB software was used to analyze strain (S) and strain rate (Sr). Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was subsequently performed. The movement of each wall segment was observed by routine echocardiography before and after 1, 3, and 6 months of PCI, and improvement was regarded as the gold standard for diagnosing VM.

Results

Compared with semi‐quantitative wall‐motion analysis combined with LDDSE, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of c‐STE (combining the three directions of S and Sr) at LDDSE were 91.6%, 79.5%, and 87.5%, respectively (p < 0.02). Among the deformation parameters, longitudinal strain (LS) and longitudinal strain rate (LSr) had the highest sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Upon combining LS and LSr at LDDSE to parallel tests, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy were 91.7%, 90%, and 90.6%, respectively. Compared with baseline, LVEF after PCI increased from 43.3% ± 2.6% to 47.3% ± 2.9% (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Global strain at LDDSE is superior to semi‐quantitative wall‐motion analysis with LDDSE for the assessment of VM. When the multivariable analysis and the parallel tests are combined, LS combined with LSr can be considered an independent predictor of VM. LVEF is improved after PCI in patients with VM and OMI. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 44:545–554, 2016
Antiviral activity of Carbenoxolone disodium against dengue virus infection
Authors: Pu Jieying , He Li , Xie Heping , Wu Siyu , Li Yuye , Zhang Ping , Yang Zhicong , Huang Xi
Published: May 2016

As one of the most important mosquito‐borne viral diseases, dengue infection is now becoming a global concern due to its rapid spread and rise in incidence. Currently, there is no approved vaccine or effective antiviral drug for dengue virus (DENV) infection. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GNa) and its related derivatives have been reported to inhibit a broad spectrum of viruses. However, it is unknown whether Carbenoxolone disodium (CBX), one of the GNa derivatives, affects DENV infection. Here, we found that the production of infectious DENV particles was significantly decreased by CBX treatment in DENV‐permissive cells, while the viral RNA and viral protein synthesis were not affected. Moreover, results from time‐of‐addition study showed that the inhibitory effect of CBX on DENV was exhibited by targeting the virus itself, not the host cells. Directly incubating DENV with CBX resulted in a remarkable reduction of virus titer and virus infectivity. Furthermore, DENV RNA from progeny virions in the supernatants was significantly decreased by CBX treatment in a dose‐dependent manner. Taken together, these data indicate that the antiviral activity of CBX against DENV may be mainly due to a virucidal effect exerted by the compound itself. Our work, for the first time, demonstrates that CBX has antiviral activity against DENV infection, providing useful information for development of potential therapeutic interventions against dengue. J. Med. Virol. 89:571–581, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Improved analysis of lek count data using N‐mixture models
Authors: McCaffery Rebecca , Nowak J. Joshua , Lukacs Paul M.
Published: May 2016

The greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) is a species of conservation concern in western North America that is experiencing ongoing population declines due to habitat loss, energy development, disease, and other factors. It is therefore imperative to have robust estimates of population size and trends in this species across its range as part of monitoring, management, and conservation efforts. Greater sage‐grouse are typically monitored by conducting counts of males at breeding leks, but the relationship between this index and true population size is unknown. In an attempt to improve the analyses of this population index, we examined the potential of N‐mixture models to evaluate population size, detection probability, and trend in greater sage‐grouse using lek count data collected over space and time. We used simulations to test how well the models recovered abundance and growth rate parameters with increasingly sparse count data. We found that the models correctly recovered parameters for scenarios with both constant and variable detection probability, even with up to 90% of the data missing, where 95% of simulations contained the true population growth rate parameter value within the 95% credible interval. We then applied the model to 13 years of lek count data from Montana, USA, collected at 2 spatial scales. Statewide, we determined that the population was decreasing by 7% per year on average over this time period, and that mean annual detection probability ranged from 0.20 to 0.76. In contrast, regressions of naïve counts over time showed a 9% annual decrease in population size with a confidence interval spanning 0. High interannual variability in detection probability demonstrates that naïve counts do not accurately measure interannual variability in population size, and may lead to misleading trends in population size over time. Although N‐mixture models still have limitations, they are a promising approach for conducting robust analyses of population trends for species that aggregate at discrete breeding sites, even when datasets are sparse or uneven. © 2016 The Wildlife Society.
Characteristics of patients potentially eligible for pharmacotherapy for weight loss in primary care practice in the United States
Authors: Zhang Shumin , Manne Sudhakar , Lin Jennifer , Yang Jiao
Published: May 2016

Objective

To describe the characteristics of real‐world patients potentially eligible for adjunctive pharmacotherapy for weight loss.

Methods

Patients from the GE Centricity electronic medical record database were selected if they had body mass index (BMI) ≥30 or ≥27 to <30 kg m−2 with ≥1 obesity‐associated comorbidity (hypertension, dyslipidemia, or type 2 diabetes) from 2002–2011; were aged ≥18 years and had ≥12 months of continuous enrollment before and after the date of first eligible BMI recorded (index date). Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used for analysis.

Results

Of the 1,835,541 patients with overweight or obesity included, comorbidities were common (hypertension [55.4%], dyslipidemia [36.1%] and type 2 diabetes [13.4%]). The percentage of patients who received pharmacotherapy for weight loss was 0.7% within 12 months after the index date. Patients who received pharmacotherapy had higher BMI (median, 33.6 vs. 31.3 kg m−2), were younger (median, 42 vs. 52 years), primarily women (84.3 vs. 58.2%), commercially insured (70.1 vs. 50.4%) and had more frequent use of antidepressants (30.8 vs. 14.1%) and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (21.7 vs. 12.0%) than those who did not at baseline (all P values < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Few eligible patients received pharmacotherapy for weight loss. Patients who received pharmacotherapy tended to be heavier, younger, female, commercially insured, and used more antidepressants and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs.
Molecular dynamics simulation of DNA‐directed assembly of nanoparticle superlattices using patterned templates
Authors: Pan S. , Li T. I. N. G. , Olvera de la Cruz M.
Published: May 2016

DNA‐directed assembly is a well developed approach in constructing desired nano‐architectures. On the other hand, E‐beam lithography is widely utilized for high resolution nano‐scale patterning. Recently, a new technique combining these two methods was developed to epitaxially grow DNA‐mediated nanoparticle superlattices on patterned substrates. However, defects are observed in epitaxial layers which restricts this technique from building large‐scale superlattices for real applications. Here we use molecular dynamics simulations to study and predict defect formation on adsorbed superlattice monolayers. We demonstrate that this epitaxial growth is energetically driven by maximizing DNA hybridization between the epitaxial layer and the substrate and that the shape anisotropy of the DNA‐mediated template posts leads to structural defects. We also develop design rules to dramatically reduce defects on epitaxial layers. Ultimately, with the assist of the computational study, this technique will open the door to constructing well‐ordered, three‐dimensional novel nanomaterials. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2016, 54, 1687–1692
Efficient bioconversion of l-glutamate to γ-aminobutyric acid by Lactobacillus brevis resting cells
Authors: Shi Xiufeng , Chang Chuanyou , Ma Shenxi , Cheng Yibing , Zhang Jun , Gao Qiang
Published: May 2016

This work investigated the efficient bioconversion process of l-glutamate to GABA by Lactobacillus brevis TCCC 13007 resting cells. The optimal bioconversion system was composed of 50 g/L 48 h cultivated wet resting cells, 0.1 mM pyridoxal phosphate in glutamate-containing 0.6 M citrate buffer (pH 4.5) and performed at 45 °C and 180 rpm. By 10 h bioconversion at the ratio of 80 g/L l-glutamic acid to 240 g/L monosodium glutamate, the final titer of GABA reached 201.18 g/L at the molar bioconversion ratio of 99.4 %. This process presents a potential for industrial and commercial applications and also offers a promising feasibility of continuous GABA production coupled with fermentation. Besides, the built kinetics model revealed that the optimum operating conditions were 45 °C and pH 4.5, and the bioconversion kinetics at low ranges of substrate concentration (0 < S < 80 g/L) was assumed to follow the classical Michaelis–Menten equation.
Study of Crystal Violet Hueing Dye Deposition on Fabrics During Home Laundry
Authors: Pei Liujun , Wu Jindan , Wang Qiuju , Wang Jiping
Published: May 2016

The influence of hueing dye on the fabric b* value and CIE whiteness during home laundry was investigated using crystal violet dye to study the accumulation mechanism on fabric samples. Fabrics treated with the crystal violet dye had a lower b* value and a higher CIE whiteness. The dye accumulation was much higher on nylon or nylon/lycra blends than on cotton and polyester fabrics. The fabric surface charge and surface energy were also studied, and the dye‐fiber interaction was investigated based on fiber and dye molecular structure. The study indicates: (1) the electrostatic adsorption is the main contributor to the deposition and accumulation of hueing dyes on fabrics; (2) fabric surface energy may play an important role in the dye‐fiber interaction. The more hydrophobic the fiber surface, the less dye accumulates on the fabric during home laundry.
Christian Churches and Immigrant Support in Canada: An Organizational Ecology Perspective
Authors: Reimer Sam , Chapman Mark , Janzen Rich , Watson James , Wilkinson Michael
Published: May 2016

Canada receives roughly 250,000 immigrants each year, and the government spends considerable resources on assisting them to settle and integrate into Canadian society through the agencies they support. Most of these new immigrants settle in Canada's largest cities, where churches meet specific needs that extend beyond the capacities of government agencies. In smaller centers, churches cover a wide range of services because few government supports are available. Little is known about the work of churches in Canada in spite of their importance to immigrant settlement and integration. In this study, we examine the services offered to immigrants by Canadian Christian churches. We show how the service provision of Christian churches is constrained by other organizations and groups in their environment, in ways consonant with the organizational ecology framework. Specifically, churches service the needs of immigrants by adapting to specific niche needs and by filling in gaps left by other service providers.
Long Non-Coding RNAs in the Cytoplasm
Authors: Rashid Farooq , Shah Abdullah , Shan Ge
Published: May 2016

An enormous amount of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) transcribed from eukaryotic genome are important regulators in different aspects of cellular events. Cytoplasm is the residence and the site of action for many lncRNAs. The cytoplasmic lncRNAs play indispensable roles with multiple molecular mechanisms in animal and human cells. In this review, we mainly talk about functions and the underlying mechanisms of lncRNAs in the cytoplasm. We highlight relatively well-studied examples of cytoplasmic lncRNAs for their roles in modulating mRNA stability, regulating mRNA translation, serving as competing endogenous RNAs, functioning as precursors of microRNAs, and mediating protein modifications. We also elaborate the perspectives of cytoplasmic lncRNA studies.
Conservative Therapy is an Effective Option in Patients with Localized Infection After Penile Implant Surgery
Authors: Habous Mohamad , Farag Mohammed , Williamson Ben , Laban Osama , Mahmoud Saad , Abdelwahab Osama , Elkhouly Mohamed , Kamil Usama , Binsaleh Saleh , Tal Raanan , Ralph David , Mulhall John P.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Traditionally, penile implant (PI) infections have been managed by removal with immediate or delayed replacement. Recently, interest has been focused on conservative therapy (CT) using antibiotic therapy.

Aim

To investigate the success rate and predictive factors affecting the outcome of CT in PI infection patients.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with early, localized PI infection were considered candidates for CT. Exclusion criteria included temperature >37.5°C, WBC >13,000/μL, and appearance of any sign of sepsis. In patients with purulent drainage, culture swabs were taken and an antibiotic was chosen based on sensitivity results. Oral antibiotics were used until the local infection was completely resolved. Patients were evaluated weekly during this process.

Results

Thirty-seven patients were retrospectively reviewed and constituted the study population. Mean age was 58.1 (range 37–85; SD 9.9) years. All were diabetic. Mean BMI was 31.8 (range 24–47; SD 5.0). PI was malleable in 33 cases and inflatable in 4 cases. Culture results (n = 19) included Staphylococcus epidermidis (42 %), pseudomonas (21%), Escherichia coli (21%), and S aureus (16%). Four of 37 patients needed the PI removed due to CT failure and onset of systemic symptoms, at a mean time-point of 75 ± 1.8 days after CT commencement. In men who were cured, mean time to complete healing was 49 (range 29–97; SD 15.8) days. Two of 37 patients (5%) had PI removal because of persistent penile pain despite complete wound healing, at a mean time point of 128 ± 2.5 days after CT commencement. All men managed conservatively resumed sexual intercourse.

Conclusion

CT of localized PI infection appears to be a viable option for such patients, with the majority of patients retaining their implant and resuming sexual activity.
Undersea Data Tie Slow Fault Slip to Tsunami-Causing Quakes
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: May 2016

Slow events might help scientists better understand when and why tsunami-generating earthquakes occur.