bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The underused hip in ipsilaterally orthotics-dependent children
Authors: Sallam Asser , Ziegler Christian M. , Jansson Volkmar , Heimkes Bernhard
Published: July 2015

Background

The aim of this investigation is the development of primarily healthy hips in children who have required orthoses/protheses over the long term due to ipsilateral distally located deformities of the leg. These children show ipsilateral in-toeing gait and Duchenne's limping followed by a coxa valga antetorta and facultative hip decentration. A practical question is whether these hips are in danger of decompensation. An additional theoretical question is how the external shape and internal architecture changes if a primarily healthy hip is underused.

Methods

Ten children with healthy hips who are unilaterally long-term orthotics/prosthetics-dependent agreed to undergo an instrumental gait analysis. The results were analyzed and correlated with clinical findings, a common activity score and planimetric radiographic data.

Results

The intra-individual comparison revealed a number of significant changes in the hip of the deformed leg ( p < 0.05). Clinically, the internal rotation was increased (15° ± 4.2°), while the external rotation was diminished (13° ± 1.3°). Radiologically, the projected caput–collum–diaphyseal angle, the lesser trochanter to articular surface distance and the head–shaft angle were increased by 11.1° ± 15.4°, 5.8 ± 4.2 mm and 11.9° ± 0.6°, respectively. Both the Sharp and acetabular angles were increased, the former by 3.6° ± 0.6° and the latter by 3.2° ± 0.6°. Kinetic gait analysis showed increased stride length (6.8 ± 3.7 cm), shortened stance phase (6.6 ± 1.6 %) and reduced forces transmitted to the ground (92.2 ± 34.3 N). The kinematic analysis showed increased hip abduction (14.0° ± 8.2°), while the pelvic obliquity was not significantly changed (0.01° ± 0.01°).

Conclusions

Duchenne's limp and lack of weight-bearing stress are the decisive pathogenic factors of the underused coxa valga and acetabular dysplasia. These changes follow the mechanobiological concept of “function modifies design”, which means function influences external shape and internal architecture of bones and joints. As a practical consequence we recommend that one pelvic radiograph be performed as a precaution at the end of puberty of children with these conditions.

Level of evidence

Level II retrospective study.
Distinguishing Asthma Phenotypes Using Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Howard Rebecca , Rattray Magnus , Prosperi Mattia , Custovic Adnan
Published: July 2015

Asthma is not a single disease, but an umbrella term for a number of distinct diseases, each of which are caused by a distinct underlying pathophysiological mechanism. These discrete disease entities are often labelled as ‘asthma endotypes’. The discovery of different asthma subtypes has moved from subjective approaches in which putative phenotypes are assigned by experts to data-driven ones which incorporate machine learning. This review focuses on the methodological developments of one such machine learning technique—latent class analysis—and how it has contributed to distinguishing asthma and wheezing subtypes in childhood. It also gives a clinical perspective, presenting the findings of studies from the past 5 years that used this approach. The identification of true asthma endotypes may be a crucial step towards understanding their distinct pathophysiological mechanisms, which could ultimately lead to more precise prevention strategies, identification of novel therapeutic targets and the development of effective personalized therapies.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: The Association of Palmitoylethanolamide with Luteolin Decreases Autophagy in Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Siracusa Rosalba , Paterniti Irene , Bruschetta Giuseppe , Cordaro Marika , Impellizzeri Daniela , Crupi Rosalia , Cuzzocrea Salvatore , Esposito Emanuela
Published: July 2015

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition of the central nervous system (CNS) often resulting in severe functional impairment and for which there are not yet restorative therapies. In the present study, we performed a widely used model of SCI to determine the neuroprotective propriety of palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) and the antioxidant effect of a flavonoid luteolin (Lut), given as a co-ultramicronized compound co-ultraPEALut. In particular, by western blot analysis and immunofluorescence staining, we investigated whether this compound (at the dose of 1 mg/kg) was able to modulate autophagy. Our results showed that treatment with co-ultraPEALut after SCI reduced the expression of proteins promoter of autophagy such as Beclin-1 and microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (MAP-LC3). In contrast, this compound decreased the levels of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), p-Akt, and p-70S6K which are proteins that inhibit autophagy. These data confirmed that the protective role of co-ultraPEALut is associated with inhibition of excessive autophagy and regulation of protein degradation. Therefore, treatment with co-ultraPEALut could be considered as a possible therapeutic approach in an acute traumatic lesion like SCI.
Ambrosia artemisiifolia (ragweed) in Germany – current presence, allergological relevance and containment procedures
Authors: Buters Jeroen , Alberternst Beate , Nawrath Stefan , Wimmer Maria , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Starfinger Uwe , Behrendt Heidrun , Schmidt-Weber Carsten , Bergmann Karl-Christian
Published: July 2015

Ambrosia artemisiifolia (ragweed) is a neophyte in Europe and Germany, which originated from the United States of America. In the USA the rate of sensitization against ragweed equals that of grass pollen, and without containment the rate of allergic sensitizations against ragweed pollen will clearly increase. Currently, the most frequent sensitizations in Germany are against grass pollen, followed by sensitizations against house dust mite and birch pollen. Ragweed pollen evokes symptoms at about 10 pollen/m3, grass pollen at about 15 pollen/m3. These concentrations of ragweed pollen are only reached on limited occasions in Germany.

Ragweed cross-reacts with mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) and a correct diagnosis is only feasible with the ragweed specific allergen Amb a 1. Due to cross reactivity with mugwort, new sensitizations against ragweed pollen are not needed to evoke allergic symptoms. The neophyte encounters an already mugwort-sensitized population, extends the pollen season and may provoke new sensitizations. Ragweed sensitizations are characterized by an increased tendency to also affect the lower airways, which is less with mugwort sensitizations.

Thus containment of ragweed is needed. Ragweed seeds are imported or spread by contaminated bird feed, the transport of ragweed contaminated soil (also in tyre treads) and agricultural products from infested areas. States bordering on ragweed positive areas, like Brandenburg and Bavaria, are especially at risk and invasion is already underway. Ragweed seeds survive up to 40 years in soil, and so extended timescales for eradication and observations are needed.

Germany is, compared to other countries like France (Rhone-Valley), Italy (Po-Valley), Ukraine and Hungary, limited in respect to ragweed infestation. Conditions in Germany are therefore favourable for the containment of ragweed. Switzerland implemented legislation against birdseed contamination by ragweed early during the plants expansion, and obligatory ragweed registration- and eradication showed that ragweed containment is possible. Without counter measures ragweed expansion in Germany will take place, resulting in more allergic disease. Considering the increasing number of allergic individuals, even without ragweed invasion, containment of the neophyte should be actively persued. Unfortunately, time is running out.
Comparison of circumferential pulmonary vein anatomy mapping guided by 3D mapping versus a mesh mapping catheter
Authors: Yan Yi‐Wen , Chen Gang , Zhang Feng , Chen Song‐Wen , Meng Wei‐Dong , Liu Shao‐Wen
Published: July 2015

Objective

Catheter‐based pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an established therapy for paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. The high‐density mesh mapper (HDMM) guides circumferential PV‐atrium isolation without the 3D electroanatomic mapping. This study aims to compare circumferential pulmonary vein (CPV) anatomy mapping between guiding by a 3D mapping system and the HDMM.

Methods

Forty‐four consecutive patients with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation were scheduled for a first procedure for PVI. A CPV ostial anatomy map guided by HDMM was set up in the CARTO system while the operator was blinded to the CARTO screen. Then CARTO‐guided ipsilateral PV maps were obtained and PVI was performed. This established another set of CPV ostial anatomy maps. The differences between the two mapping images were compared and analyzed.

Results

All 176 PVs in 44 patients could be mapped by both HDMM and CARTO. About 44.9% of the PV ostial anatomies were generally similar between the two different map images. The average point‐to‐point straight distance between the HDMM‐guided map and the CARTO‐guided map was 6.2 ± 1.4 mm. The area of the circumferential right PV (CRPV) in the HDMM map was larger than that in the CARTO map (P = 0.013). After a mean follow‐up of 18.3 ± 4.3 months (6–24 months), 72.7% of patients (32/44) were free of atrial arrhythmia without anti‐arrhythmic drugs (AADs).

Conclusion

Compared to the CARTO‐guided CPV anatomy image, a highly similar figure could be achieved by mapping guided by the HDMM. (Clinical trial.gov number, ChiCTR‐TNRC‐11001390.)
Improving the clinical detection of Lewy body dementia with the Lewy body composite risk score
Authors: Galvin James E.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) is a challenge to diagnose, particularly outside of expert centers with long delays in diagnosis leading to significant burden to patients and caregivers. Although consensus criteria have excellent specificity, there is no standardized way to assess symptoms reducing sensitivity. We developed the Lewy body composite risk score (LBCRS) from autopsy‐verified cases to improve the ability to detect DLB in clinic and research populations.

Methods

The LBCRS was tested in a consecutive series of 256 patients compared with the clinical dementia rating and gold standard measures of cognition, motor symptoms, function, and behavior. Psychometric properties including floor and ceiling effects; concurrent, construct, and known‐groups validity; and internal consistency of the LBCRS were determined. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves assessed the ability of LBCRS to differentiate (1) DLB from Alzheimer's disease (AD), (b) DLB from all dementia, and (c) mild cognitive impairment (MCI) due to DLB from MCI due to AD. The LBCRS was completed independent of the clinical evaluation.

Results

Mean LBCRS scores were significantly different between DLB and AD (6.1 ± 2.0 vs. 2.4 ± 1.3, P < .001) and between MCI‐DLB versus MCI‐AD (3.2 ± 0.9 vs. 1.0 ± 0.8, P < .001). The LBCRS was able to discriminate DLB from other causes of dementia. Using a cutoff score of 3, areas under ROC for DLB versus AD = 0.93 (0.89–0.98) and for MCI‐DLB versus MCI‐AD = 0.96 (0.91–1.0).

Discussion

The LBCRS increases diagnostic probability that Lewy body pathology is contributing to the dementia syndrome and should improve clinical detection and enrollment for clinical trials.
Oral glucose tolerance testing to modulate plasma amyloid levels: A novel biomarker
Authors: Oh Esther S. , Marano Christopher M. , Leoutsakos Jeannie‐Marie , Lee Rebecca W. , Rissman Robert A. , Smith Gwenn S. , Craft Suzanne , Lyketsos Constantine G.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Plasma levels of amyloid‐beta (Aβ) do not correlate well with different stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in cross‐sectional studies. Measuring the changes in Aβ plasma levels with an acute intervention may be more sensitive to distinguishing individuals in earlier stages of AD (mild cognitive impairment [MCI]) from normal controls.

Methods

A total of 57 participants (18 with AD/MCI and 39 cognitively normal controls) underwent oral glucose tolerance testing (OGTT). Blood samples were obtained over a 2‐hour period. Changes in plasma Aβ40 and 42 levels were measured from either baseline or 5 minutes to the 10‐minute time‐point.

Results

Compared with normal controls, subjects with AD/MCI had significantly less change (Δ) in plasma levels for both Aβ40 (−3.13 [40.93] vs. 41.34 pg/mL [57.16]; P = .002) and Aβ42 (−0.15 [3.77] vs. 5.64 pg/mL [10.65]; P = .004).

Discussion

OGTT combined with measures of plasma Aβ40 and 42 is potentially useful in distinguishing aging individuals who are in different stages of AD.
Do cerebrospinal fluid transfer methods affect measured amyloid β42, total tau, and phosphorylated tau in clinical practice?
Authors: Paterson Ross W. , Toombs Jamie , Chapman Miles D. , Nicholas Jennifer M. , Heslegrave Amanda J. , Slattery Catherine F. , Foulkes Alexander J.M. , Clark Camilla N. , Lane Christopher A.S. , Weston Philip S.J. , Lunn Michael P. , Fox Nick C. , Zetterberg Henrik , Schott Jonathan M.
Published: July 2015

Introduction

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) neurodegenerative markers are measured clinically to support a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Several preanalytical factors may alter the CSF concentrations of amyloid β 1–42 (Aβ1–42) in particular with the potential to influence diagnosis. We aimed to determine whether routine handling of samples alters measured biomarker concentration compared with that of prompt delivery to the laboratory.

Methods

Forty individuals with suspected neurodegenerative diseases underwent diagnostic lumbar punctures using a standardized technique. A sample of each patient's CSF was sent to the laboratory by four different delivery methods: (1) by courier at room temperature; (2) by courier, on ice; (3) using standard hospital portering; and (4) after quarantining for >24 hours. Aβ1–42, total tau (t‐tau), and phosphorylated tau (p‐tau) levels measured using standard enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay techniques were compared between transfer methods.

Results

There were no significant differences in Aβ1–42, t‐tau, or p‐tau concentrations measured in samples transported via the different delivery methods despite significant differences in time taken to deliver samples.

Discussion

When CSF is collected in appropriate tubes, transferred at room temperature, and processed within 24 hours, neurodegenerative markers can be reliably determined.
A family of DNA aptamers with varied duplex region length that forms complexes with thrombin and prothrombin
Authors: Spiridonova V.A. , Barinova K.V. , Glinkina K.A. , Melnichuk A.V. , Gainutdynov A.A. , Safenkova I.V. , Dzantiev B.B.
Published: July 2015

Structural properties determine binding affinities of DNA aptamers specific to thrombin. Our paper is the first to focus on a family of eight G‐quadruplex‐based aptamers with varied duplex region length (from two to eight base pairs). We have shown that the duplex, which is not the main binding domain, greatly influences the interaction with thrombin and prothrombin. Furthermore, the affinity of an aptamer to thrombin and prothrombin increases (respectively from 2.7 × 10−8
M to 5.6 × 10−10
M and from 1.8 × 10−5
M to 7.1 × 10−9
M) with an increase in the number of nucleotide pairs in the duplex region.
Kindlin‐2 interacts with α‐actinin‐2 and β1 integrin to maintain the integrity of the Z‐disc in cardiac muscles
Authors: Qi Lihua , Yu Yu , Chi Xiaochun , Xu Weizhi , Lu Danyu , Song Yao , Zhang Youyi , Zhang Hongquan
Published: July 2015

Kindlin‐2, as an integrin‐interacting protein, was known to be required for the maintenance of cardiac structure and function in zebrafish. However, the mechanism remains unclear. We found that Kindlin‐2 interacts and colocalizes with α‐actinin‐2 at the Z‐disc of mouse cardiac muscles and there Kindlin‐2 also interacts with β1 integrin. Knockdown of Kindlin‐2 influences the association of β1 integrin with α‐actinin‐2 and disrupts the structure of the Z‐disc and leads to cardiac dysfunction. Our data indicated that Kindlin‐2 is a novel α‐actinin‐2‐interacting protein and plays an important role in the regulation of cardiac structure and function.
Single cell imaging reveals that the motility regulator speract induces a flagellar alkalinization that precedes and is independent of Ca2+ influx in sea urchin spermatozoa
Authors: González-Cota Ana Laura , Silva Pedro Ângelo , Carneiro Jorge , Darszon Alberto
Published: July 2015

Speract, a peptide from the egg jelly coat of certain sea urchin species, modulates sperm motility through a signaling pathway involving several ionic fluxes leading to pHi and [Ca2+]i increases. [Ca2+]i oscillations in the flagellum regulate its beating pattern modulating sperm swimming. Recent evidence showed the importance of pHi in controlling Ca2+ influx and chemotaxis. However, spatio‐temporal characterization of the flagellar pHi increase triggered by speract, and its correlation to that of [Ca2+]i is lacking. Here, we show for the first time in single sea urchin spermatozoa that the speract‐induced flagellar pHi increase precedes and is independent of [Ca2+]i increase. Our results support a leading role of pHi in modulating the Ca2+ signals that govern sperm swimming.
Identification of the receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs)‐oriented functional targets of miR‐206 by an antibody‐based protein array
Authors: Cui Yazhou , Xie Shuyang , Luan Jing , Zhou Xiaoyan , Han Jinxiang
Published: July 2015

This study demonstrated the feasibility and benefit of an antibody‐based experimental approach to identify microRNA functional targets from hundreds of predicted genes using miR‐206 as an example. Using a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) antibody array, we identified 7 phosphorylated RTKs that were significantly differentially regulated after miR‐206‐mimic transfection. We then focused on MET, the most varied RTK, and bioinformatically constructed a MET‐centred network using computationally predicted miR‐206 targets. Within this network, we analyzed two validated targets, PAX3 and SNX2, and one candidate target, EIF4E, may account for the inhibitory effect of miR‐206 on MET phosphorylation. Luciferase and Western‐blot assays indicated that EIF4E was a direct target of miR‐206. This concept may also be applicable for other microRNAs and other antibody array platforms.
In vitro substrate specificities of 3′–5′ polymerases correlate with biological outcomes of tRNA 5′‐editing reactions
Authors: Long Yicheng , Jackman Jane E.
Published: July 2015

Protozoan mitochondrial tRNAs (mt‐tRNAs) are repaired by a process known as 5′‐editing. Mt‐tRNA sequencing revealed organism‐specific patterns of editing G–U base pairs, wherein some species remove G–U base pairs during 5′‐editing, while others retain G–U pairs in the edited tRNA. We tested whether 3′–5′ polymerases that catalyze the repair step of 5′‐editing exhibit organism‐specific preferences that explain the treatment of G–U base pairs. Biochemical and kinetic approaches revealed that a 3′–5′ polymerase from Acanthamoeba castellanii tolerates G–U wobble pairs in editing substrates much more readily than several other enzymes, consistent with its biological pattern of editing.
Inhibition of ASCT2 is essential in all‐trans retinoic acid‐induced reduction of adipogenesis in 3T3‐L1 cells
Authors: Takahashi Katsuhiko , Uchida Natsumi , Kitanaka Chisato , Sagara Chiaki , Imai Masahiko , Takahashi Noriko
Published: July 2015

Vitamin A has preventive effects on obesity. All‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA), the active form of vitamin A, inhibits lipid accumulation in 3T3‐L1 cells in an experimental adipogenesis model. We found that ATRA suppressed up‐regulation of the amino acid transporter, Asct2, in adipogenerating 3T3‐L1 cells. We observed that Asct2 was up‐regulated at 1 day after adipogenesis stimuli. The Asct2 inhibitorl‐γ‐glutamyl‐p‐nitroanilide (GPNA) decreased lipid accumulation. Glutamine‐free conditions also suppressed adipogenesis. Suppression of adipogenesis by ATRA may be through Asct2 reduction. These results indicate that Asct2 could be a target for obesity prevention and treatment.
Neuroanatomical localization of nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) in the central nervous system of carp,Labeo rohitaduring post‐embryonic development
Authors: Biswas Saikat P. , Jadhao Arun G. , Bhoyar Rahul C. , Palande Nikhil V. , Sinh Dharmendra P.
Published: July 2015

Nitric oxide (NO) is a chemically diffusible molecular messenger playing various roles in both vertebrates and invertebrates. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is the key enzyme in synthesis of NO. The neuroanatomical distribution pattern of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) was studied and developing stages ofLabeo rohitasuch as hatchlings (10–15 mm), frys (15–35 mm), semi‐fingerlings (35–65 mm), fingerlings (65–100 mm) and adults (350–370 mm) were used. In the telencephalon, nitrergic cells were observed in both pallial and subpallial regions along with entopeduncular nucleus suggesting the involvement of NO in the control of sensory functions throughout the development. In the diencephalon, nNOS positive neurons were localized in the nucleus preopticus periventricularis and preopticus parvocellularis throughout development while nucleus preopticus magnocellularis was found immunopositive only in adult specimens who suggest the involvement of NO in the hormonal regulation. nNOS immunoreaction was also noted in suprachaismatic nucleus, habenula, lateral tuberal nucleus, paraventricular organ and anterior division of preglomerular nucleus throughout development. In the mesencephalic region, nNOS immunoreactivity was seen in the optic tectum, torus longitudinalis, nucleus of median longitudinal fascicle and occulomotor nucleus indicate the role of NO in integration of visual inputs and modulates motor control of the eyes and movements. Caudally, in the rhombencephalon, the cerebellum, the nucleus reticularis, the octaval nucleus and the motor nucleus of vagal nerve were nNOS positive during development. nNOS reactive cells and fibers were noted in the spinal motor column, thus suggesting a role of NO in gestation and startle response from early development.
Fever of unknown origin and liver mass in a Saudi child
Authors: Alrwuili Fawzah
Published: July 2015

Inflammatory pseudo tumor (IPT) is a rare benign lesion that can occur in any organ in the body. IPT is histologically characterized by the presence of inflammatory cells, espe-cially, plasma cells, spindle-shaped cells, and myofibroblasts.

Many cases of IPTs affecting multiple organs in both adults and children have been docu-mented in the literature. Fifty-five cases of hepatic IPTs have been reported in children, and all of them were managed by surgical resection. Limited data are available on IPTs in Arabs.

Our aim was to report the case of an 8-year-old Saudi boy who was referred to our hospital with fever of unknown origin since 3 months with associated weight loss and a hepatic mass, and was found to have an IPT of the liver, which was confirmed after surgical resection.

8 years old Saudi boy who presented with fever and liver mass. Ultrasound and MRI abdomen showed heterogeneous liver mass. After surgical resection, his mass histology going with inflammatory pseudo tumor. Following surgical resection his fever subsided.

The findings of the present case report show that fever and liver mass in children can be manifestations of a rare disease such as IPT, which should be considered in the differential diagnosis when all investigations are inconclusive. Based on the literature review, surgical excision seems to be the best treatment strategy for this condition. However, the imaging findings, especially the size and location of the mass, must be carefully discussed with the surgical team before the operation.
Five-axis finishing tool path generation for a mesh blade based on linear morphing cone
Authors: Zhang Rong , Hu Pengcheng , Tang Kai
Published: July 2015

Blisk is an essential component in aero engines. To maintain good aero-dynamic performance, one critical machining requirement for blades on blisk is that the generated five-axis tool path should be boundary-conformed. For a blade discretely modeled as a point cloud or mesh, most existing popular tool path generation methods are unable to meet this requirement. To address this issue, a novel five-axis tool path generation method for a discretized blade on blisk is presented in this paper. An idea called Linear Morphing Cone (LMC) is first proposed, which sets the boundary of the blade as the constraint. Based on this LMC, a CC curve generation and expansion method is then proposed with the specified machining accuracy upheld. Using the proposed tool path generation method, experiments on discretized blades are carried out, whose results show that the generated tool paths are both uniform and boundary-conformed.

Highlights Five-axis finishing tool path based on Linear Morphing Cone (LMC) is presented. The method is implemented on a mesh model. Tool path generated from the proposed method is boundary-conforming. Boundaries of the machining region can be arbitrarily assigned. Experiments are carried out on two mesh blades.
Effects of Transpersonal Brief Psychotherapy on general state of health and quality of life in patients with Crohn's disease
Authors: Acciari Arlete Silva , Leão Frederico Camelo , Coy Cláudio Saddy Rodrigues , Leal Raquel Franco , Dias Cristiana Corrrêa , Saldanha Vera , Ayrizono Maria de Lourdes Setsuko
Published: July 2015

Introduction Crohn's disease (CD) is a chronic illness with continuous and longstanding treatment, which affects general state of health and life quality of patients.

Objectives Evaluating the effects of Transpersonal Brief Psychotherapy (TBP) on general state of health and life quality of patients with CD.

Methods Eleven people diagnosed with CD of both sexes and aged between 25 and 50 years old have been evaluated. The clinical method was used and the procedure consisted of treatment with TBP and data collection before and after psychotherapy. In data collection, the following instruments were used: Sociodemographic Questionnaire (SDQ), Crohn's Disease Activity Index (CDAI), Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (IBDQ) and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ), with descriptive analysis of results and the statistical methodology with Wilcoxon test.

Results The procedure turned out to be effective to all instruments (p < 0.05) and the most significant result was in relation to general state of health (−40.4%) and life quality (35.3%). The disease activity has decreased by 38.1% on CDAI.

Conclusion TBP has brought meaningful benefits to patients with CD, influencing the clinical picture, with reduction of the severity of the disease and, consequently, it has improved their general state of health and life quality.
Association between vitamin D deficiency and anemia in inflammatory bowel disease patients with ileostomy
Authors: Fialho Andre , Fialho Andrea , Kochhar Gursimran , Shen Bo
Published: July 2015

Background Vitamin D deficiency is commonly seen in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Vitamin D deficiency in IBD patients with ileostomy has not been systemically studied. The aim of the study was to assess the frequency and risk factors associated with low 25(OH) D3 levels in those patients.

Methods 112 eligible IBD patients with ileostomy were studied. Demographic, clinical, and endoscopic variables were analyzed. Vitamin D levels before and after ileostomy were compared when available. Levels of serum 25(OH)D3 <20 ng/mL were classed as being deficient.

Results 112 eligible ileostomy patients were included. The mean vitamin D level was 21.47 ± 1.08 ng/dl. Low levels of vitamin D (<30 ng/dl) were present in 92 patients (82%). Vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/dL) was seen in 55 patients (49%). There was no difference between patients with or without vitamin D deficiency regarding demographic variables, medication use and duration of ileostomy. Neo-ileal inflammation on endoscopy was not associated with vitamin D deficiency (p = 0.155). Lower levels of phosphorus (p = 0.020) or hemoglobin (p = 0.019) and shorter duration of IBD (p = 0.047) were found in patients with vitamin D deficiency. In multivariate analysis, lower levels of phosphorus (odds ratio [OR]: 1.83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.16–2.89, p = 0.009) and hemoglobin (OR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.08–1.60, p = 0.006) remained significantly associated with vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency is common in IBD patients with ileostomy and is associated with low hemoglobin levels. Further studies are needed to evaluate vitamin D supplementation as a possible adjuvant in the treatment of anemia of chronic disease in IBD patients.
Renal sympathetic denervation prevents the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension and cardiac dysfunction in dogs
Authors: Hu Wei , Yu Sheng‐Bo , Chen Liao , Guo Rui‐Qiang , Zhao Qing‐Yan
Published: July 2015

The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system is activated in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients, and this activation may have long‐term negative effects on the progression of PAH. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of transcatheter renal sympathetic denervation (RSD) on the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension and cardiac dysfunction in dogs using two‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging. Twenty‐two dogs were randomly divided into three groups: control group (n = 7), PAH group (n = 8), and PAH + RSD group (n = 7). All dogs were assessed using two‐dimensional speckle tracking imaging. The ventricular strain, ventricular synchrony, left ventricular (LV) twist, and torsion rate were analyzed to evaluate cardiac function. After 8 weeks, the right ventricular lateral longitudinal strain and the septum longitudinal strain were reduced in the PAH group compared with the control group (p < 0.001). However, these values were significantly restored in the PAH + RSD group compared with the PAH group (p < 0.01). The degree of LV and RV dyssynchrony was significantly higher in the PAH group compared with the control group (p < 0.001), but the degree of LV and RV dyssynchrony was significantly lower in the PAH + RSD group compared to the PAH group (p < 0.01). The LV twist was significantly restored in the PAH + RSD group compared to the PAH group (p < 0.01). Similarly, the rotation rate was markedly decreased in the PAH group, and strikingly improved in the PAH + RSD group (p < 0.01). These results indicate that RSD prevents the development of PAH and cardiac dysfunction in dogs.
Kinematic, Cardiopulmonary, and Metabolic Responses of Overweight Runners While Running at Self‐Selected and Standardized Speeds
Authors: Zdziarski Laura Ann , Chen Cong , Horodyski Marybeth , Vincent Kevin R. , Vincent Heather K.
Published: July 2015

Objective

To determine the differences in kinematic, cardiopulmonary, and metabolic responses between overweight and healthy weight runners at a self‐selected and standard running speed.

Design

Comparative descriptive study.

Setting

Tertiary care institution, university‐affiliated research laboratory.

Participants

Overweight runners (n = 21) were matched with runners of healthy weight (n = 42).

Methods

Participants ran at self‐selected and standardized speeds (13.6 km/h). Sagittal plane joint kinematics were captured simultaneously with cardiopulmonary and metabolic measures using a motion capture system and portable gas analyzer, respectively.

Main Outcome Measurements

Spatiotemporal parameters (cadence, step width and length, center of gravity displacement, stance time) joint kinematics, oxygen cost, heart rate, ventilation and energy expenditure.

Results

At the self‐selected speed, overweight individuals ran slower (8.5 ± 1.3 versus 10.0 ± 1.6 km/h) and had slower cadence (163 versus 169 steps/min; P < .05). The sagittal plane range of motion (ROM) for flexion‐extension at the ankle, knee, hip, and anterior pelvic tilt were all less in overweight runners compared to healthy weight runners (all P < .05). At self‐selected speed and 13.6 km/h, energy expenditure was higher in the overweight runners compared to their healthy weight counterparts (P < .05). At 13.6 km/h, only the frontal hip and pelvis ROM were higher in the overweight versus the healthy weight runners (P < .05), and energy expenditure, net energy cost, and minute ventilation were higher in the overweight runners compared to the healthy weight runners (P < .05).

Conclusion

At self‐selected running speeds, the overweight runners demonstrated gait strategies (less joint ROM, less vertical displacement, and shorter step lengths) that resulted in cardiopulmonary and energetic responses similar to those of healthy weight individuals.
TOX and CDKN2A/B Gene Polymorphisms Are Associated with Type 2 Diabetes in Han Chinese
Authors: Wei Fengjiang , Cai Chunyou , Feng Shuzhi , Lv Jia , Li Shen , Chang Baocheng , Zhang Hong , Shi Wentao , Han Hongling , Ling Chao , Yu Ping , Chen Yongjun , Sun Ning , Tian Jianli , Jiao Hongxiao , Yang Fuhua , Li Mingshan , Wang Yuhua , Zou Lei , Su Long , Li Jingbo , Li Ran , Qiu Huina , Shi Jingmin , Liu Shiying , Chang Mingqin , Lin Jingna , Chen Liming , Li Wei-Dong
Published: July 2015

To study associations between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) candidate genes and microvascular complications of diabetes (MVCDs), we performed case-control association studies for both T2DM and MVCDs in Han Chinese subjects. We recruited 1,939 unrelated Han Chinese T2DM patients and 918 individuals with normal blood glucose levels as nondiabetic controls. Among T2DM patients, 1116 have MVCDs, 266 have a history of T2DM of >10 years but never developed MVCDs. Eighty-two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 54 candidate genes were genotyped. Discrete association studies were performed by the PLINK program for T2DM and MVCDs. Significant associations were found among candidate gene SNPs and T2DM, including rs1526167 of the TOX gene (allele A, P = 2.85 × 10−9, OR = 1.44). The SNP rs10811661 of the CDKN2A/B gene was also associated with T2DM (allele T, P = 4.09 × 10−7, OR = 1.36). When we used control patients with >10 years of T2DM history without MVCD, we found that the G allele of SNP rs1526167 of the TOX gene was associated with MVCD (nominal P = 4.33 × 10−4). In our study, significant associations were found between TOX and CDKN2A/B gene SNPs and T2DM. The TOX polymorphism might account for the higher risk of T2DM and the lower risk of MVCDs in the Han Chinese population.
Gold-catalyzed intramolecular diazo coupling: an efficient macrocyclization towards cyclic olefins
Authors: Zhu Chenghao , Xu Guangyang , Liu Kai , Qiu Lin , Peng Shiyong , Sun Jiangtao
Published: July 2015

A gold-catalyzed synthesis of medium to large membered cyclic olefins has been developed.
Aerobic oxidative C–H/C–H coupling of azaaromatics with indoles and pyrroles in the presence of TiO2as a photocatalyst
Authors: Utepova I. A. , Trestsova M. A. , Chupakhin O. N. , Charushin V. N. , Rempel A. A.
Published: July 2015

Pyrrolyl and indolyl derivatives of azaaromatics have been prepared by an aerobic photo-induced oxidative C–H/C–H coupling method in the presence of nanosized TiO2.
Deficiency of adipocyte fatty-acid-binding protein alleviates myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion injury and diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Zhou Mi , Bao Yuqian , Li Haobo , Pan Yong , Shu Lingling , Xia Zhengyuan , Wu Donghai , Lam Karen S.L. , Vanhoutte Paul M. , Xu Aimin , Jia Weiping , Hoo Ruby L.-C.
Published: July 2015

Clinical evidence shows that circulating levels of adipocyte fatty-acid-binding protein (A-FABP) are elevated in patients with diabetes and closely associated with ischaemic heart disease. Patients with diabetes are more susceptible to myocardial ischaemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury. The experiments in the present study investigated the role of A-FABP in MI/R injury with or without diabetes. Non-diabetic and diabetic (streptozotocin-induced) A-FABP knockout and wild-type mice were subjected to MI/R or sham intervention. After MI/R, A-FABP knockout mice exhibited reductions in myocardial infarct size, apoptotic index, oxidative and nitrative stress, and inflammation. These reductions were accompanied by an improved left ventricular function compared with the relative controls under non-diabetic or diabetic conditions. After diabetes induction, A-FABP knockout mice exhibited a preserved cardiac function compared with that in wild-type mice. Endothelial cells, but not cardiomyocytes, were identified as the most likely source of cardiac A-FABP. Cardiac and circulating A-FABP levels were significantly increased in mice with diabetes or MI/R. Diabetes-induced superoxide anion production was significantly elevated in wild-type mice, but diminished in A-FABP knockout mice, and this elevation contributed to the exaggeration of MI/R-induced cardiac injury. Phosphorylation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and production of nitric oxide (NO) were enhanced in both diabetic and non-diabetic A-FABP knockout mice after MI/R injury, but diminished in wild-type mice. The beneficial effects of A-FABP deficiency on MI/R injury were abolished by the NOS inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Thus, A-FABP deficiency protects mice against MI/R-induced and/or diabetes-induced cardiac injury at least partially through activation of the eNOS/NO pathway and reduction in superoxide anion production.
Impaired mitochondrial energy supply coupled to increased H2O2 emission under energy/redox stress leads to myocardial dysfunction during Type I diabetes
Authors: Tocchetti Carlo G. , Stanley Brian A. , Sivakumaran Vidhya , Bedja Djahida , O'Rourke Brian , Paolocci Nazareno , Cortassa Sonia , Aon Miguel A.
Published: July 2015

In Type I diabetic (T1DM) patients, both peaks of hyperglycaemia and increased sympathetic tone probably contribute to impair systolic and diastolic function. However, how these stressors eventually alter cardiac function during T1DM is not fully understood. In the present study, we hypothesized that impaired mitochondrial energy supply and excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) emission is centrally involved in T1DM cardiac dysfunction due to metabolic/redox stress and aimed to determine the mitochondrial sites implicated in these alterations. To this end, we used isolated myocytes and mitochondria from Sham and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced T1DM guinea pigs (GPs), untreated or treated with insulin. Relative to controls, T1DM myocytes exhibited higher oxidative stress when challenged with high glucose (HG) combined with β-adrenergic stimulation [via isoprenaline (isoproterenol) (ISO)], leading to contraction/relaxation deficits. T1DM mitochondria had decreased respiration with complex II and IV substrates and markedly lower ADP phosphorylation rates and higher H2O2 emission when challenged with oxidants to mimic the more oxidized redox milieu present in HG + ISO-treated cardiomyocytes. Since in T1DM hearts insulin-sensitivity is preserved and a glucose-to-fatty acid (FA) shift occurs, we next tested whether insulin therapy or acute palmitate (Palm) infusion prevents HG + ISO-induced cardiac dysfunction. We found that insulin rescued proper cardiac redox balance, but not mitochondrial respiration or contractile performance. Conversely, Palm restored redox balance and preserved myocyte function. Thus, stressors such as peaks of HG and adrenergic hyperactivity impair mitochondrial respiration, hampering energy supply while exacerbating ROS emission. Our study suggests that an ideal therapeutic measure to treat metabolically/redox-challenged T1DM hearts should concomitantly correct energetic and redox abnormalities to fully maintain cardiac function.
Gewinnung von Jobcenter-Klienten für die Teilnahme an einem kardiopräventiven Untersuchungsprogramm
Authors: Ulbricht S. , Gürtler D. , Braatz J. , Weymar F. , Meyer C. , Dörr M. , John U.
Published: July 2015

Ziel: Über die Teilnehmergewinnung für Präventionsmaßnahmen in Bevölkerungen mit niedrigerem Sozialstatus ist wenig bekannt. Ergebnisse proaktiver Kontaktierung für ein 2-stufiges kardiopräventives Untersuchungsprogramm (KUP) in 2 Jobcentern einer norddeutschen Region werden dargestellt.

Methode: Über jeweils 10 Wochen erhielten Jobcenter-Klienten im Alter zwischen 40 und 65 Jahren das Angebot, am KUP teilzunehmen. Dieses umfasste einen ersten Abschnitt im Jobcenter und einen zweiten in einem kardiovaskulären Untersuchungszentrum. Abschnitt 1 beinhaltete eine EDV-gestützte Befragung, und bei Anwesenheit einer medizinischen Fachkraft, eine Blutdruckmessung und/oder Blutentnahme. Teilnehmer ohne kardiovaskuläre Vorerkrankungen, interventionelle/operative Gefäßeingriffe, Diabetes mellitus und einem Body-Maß Index≤35 kg/m2 erhielten das Angebot der Teilnahme an Abschnitt 2. Mittels logistischer Regressionsanalysen wurden für beide Abschnitte Prädiktoren der Teilnahme analysiert. Dazu zählten Lebensalter und Geschlecht, für die Teilnahme an Abschnitt 2 die Entfernung zwischen Wohnadresse und Untersuchungszentrum, kardiovaskuläre Risikofaktoren, subjektive Gesundheit und weitere soziodemografische Merkmale.

Ergebnisse: In Abschnitt 1 nahmen 344 der 1 046 eingeladenen Personen an der Befragung teil. Dabei handelte es sich um überzufällig mehr Frauen als Männer. Von diesen erhielten 253 das Angebot der Blutdruckmessung, der Blutentnahme sowie der postalischen Zusendung der Laborergebnisse. Die Teilnahme von 209 Personen war positiv mit dem Lebensalter assoziiert. An Abschnitt 2 nahmen 138 Personen teil. Je weiter vom Untersuchungszentrum entfernt die Personen wohnten, desto weniger nahmen sie dieses Angebot wahr. Von Tabakrauchern, Personen mit Hauptschulbildung bzw. solche mit nicht erhöhten Blutfetten nahmen ebenfalls weniger teil.

Schlussfolgerungen: Blutdruckmessung und Blutentnahme im Jobcenter treffen auf hohe Akzeptanz. Anforderungen zusätzlicher Wege für präventive kardiovaskuläre Untersuchungsangebote sind gering zu halten.
Alternating Ring-Opening Copolymerization of Cyclohexene Oxide and Maleic Anhydride with Diallyl-Modified Manganese(III)–Salen Catalysts
Authors: Liu Dengfeng , Zhang Zhao , Zhang Xingmei , Lü Xingqiang
Published: July 2015

A series of diallyl-modified (salen)MnIII complexes have been designed, synthesized, and applied in the cyclohexene oxide and maleic anhydride ring-opening copolymerization. The experimental results show that these complexes are effective in the presence of co-catalyst 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP). Of all the five catalysts, the catalyst (salcyen)MnCl (salcyen = 2-((E)-(2-((E)-5-allyl-2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylideneamino)cyclohexylimino)methyl)-4-allyl-6-methoxyphenol) exhibited the best catalytic performance under the conditions applied, and the cyclohexane of diimine bridge is conjugated with the two diallyl-salen-type moieties. This conjugation can increase the electron density of the centre MnIII cation so that catalyst (salcyen)MnCl favours the formation of reaction intermediates. Moreover, the anion effect of Cl– is proved to be the best in the catalytic performances. Among the three co-catalysts (DMAP, triphenylphosphine (Ph3P), and tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (n-Bu4NBr)) tested, DMAP is the most efficient towards monomer conversion and polymer chain growth.
The Demonstration and Capture of the Value of an Ecosystem Service: A Quasi‐Experimental Hedonic Property Analysis
Authors: No Kim Hyun , Boxall Peter C. , Adamowicz W. L. (Vic)
Published: July 2015

Water management can generate valuable ecosystem services but can be costly to implement. We examine this issue using irrigation water storage infrastructure which has the potential to provide desirable services to residential properties affected by the condition of the storage structure. We examine a particular prairie setting where concerns regarding fluctuations in water levels of an irrigation storage lake led to an agreement between the irrigation agency and the owners of properties around the lake to stabilize water levels. Using quasi‐experimental hedonic property approaches with two different control groups we estimate the subsequent impact of this agreement on shoreline property values using a time series of sales data. The methods utilized in this article represent an effective approach to produce plausible estimates of some of the economic values captured by the infrastructure generating ecosystem services. We find that property values increased as a result of the agreement and that the additional property tax revenues arising from these values can be used to some extent to offset the annual service fees paid to the irrigation agency to provide the stabilized lake levels. This article illustrates the potential for irrigation infrastructure management to provide increases in ecosystem service values beyond irrigation, and also that these values can be captured to pay for the costs of providing these increased values.
al3c: high-performance software for parameter inference using Approximate Bayesian Computation
Authors: Stram Alexander H. , Marjoram Paul , Chen Gary K.
Published: July 2015

Motivation: The development of Approximate Bayesian Computation (ABC) algorithms for parameter inference which are both computationally efficient and scalable in parallel computing environments is an important area of research. Monte Carlo rejection sampling, a fundamental component of ABC algorithms, is trivial to distribute over multiple processors but is inherently inefficient. While development of algorithms such as ABC Sequential Monte Carlo (ABC-SMC) help address the inherent inefficiencies of rejection sampling, such approaches are not as easily scaled on multiple processors. As a result, current Bayesian inference software offerings that use ABC-SMC lack the ability to scale in parallel computing environments.

Results: We present al3c, a C++ framework for implementing ABC-SMC in parallel. By requiring only that users define essential functions such as the simulation model and prior distribution function, al3c abstracts the user from both the complexities of parallel programming and the details of the ABC-SMC algorithm. By using the al3c framework, the user is able to scale the ABC-SMC algorithm in parallel computing environments for his or her specific application, with minimal programming overhead.

Availability and implementation:  al3c is offered as a static binary for Linux and OS-X computing environments. The user completes an XML configuration file and C++ plug-in template for the specific application, which are used by al3c to obtain the desired results. Users can download the static binaries, source code, reference documentation and examples (including those in this article) by visiting https://github.com/ahstram/al3c.

Contact:  astram@usc.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
JASSA: a comprehensive tool for prediction of SUMOylation sites and SIMs
Authors: Beauclair Guillaume , Bridier-Nahmias Antoine , Zagury Jean-François , Saïb Ali , Zamborlini Alessia
Published: July 2015

Motivation: Post-translational modification by the Small Ubiquitin-like Modifier (SUMO) proteins, a process termed SUMOylation, is involved in many fundamental cellular processes. SUMO proteins are conjugated to a protein substrate, creating an interface for the recruitment of cofactors harboring SUMO-interacting motifs (SIMs). Mapping both SUMO-conjugation sites and SIMs is required to study the functional consequence of SUMOylation. To define the best candidate sites for experimental validation we designed JASSA, a Joint Analyzer of SUMOylation site and SIMs.

Results: JASSA is a predictor that uses a scoring system based on a Position Frequency Matrix derived from the alignment of experimental SUMOylation sites or SIMs. Compared with existing web-tools, JASSA displays on par or better performances. Novel features were implemented towards a better evaluation of the prediction, including identification of database hits matching the query sequence and representation of candidate sites within the secondary structural elements and/or the 3D fold of the protein of interest, retrievable from deposited PDB files.

Availability and Implementation: JASSA is freely accessible at http://www.jassa.fr/. Website is implemented in PHP and MySQL, with all major browsers supported.

Contact:  guillaume.beauclair@inserm.fr

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.