bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensor Monitoring to Measure and Support Daily Functioning for Independently Living Older People: A Systematic Review and Road Map for Further Development
Authors: Pol Margriet C. , Poerbodipoero Soemitro , Robben Saskia , Daams Joost , van Hartingsveldt Margo , de Vos Rien , de Rooij Sophia E. , Kröse Ben , Buurman Bianca M.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To study sensor monitoring (use of a sensor network placed in the home environment to observe individuals' daily functioning (activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living)) as a method to measure and support daily functioning for older people living independently at home.

Design

Systematic review.

Setting

Participants' homes.

Participants

Community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 and older.

Measurements

A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO, INSPEC, and The Cochrane Library was performed for articles published between 2000 and October 2012. All study designs, studies that described the use of wireless sensor monitoring to measure or support daily functioning for independently living older people, studies that included community‐dwelling individuals aged 65 and older, and studies that focused on daily functioning as a primary outcome measure were included.

Results

Seventeen articles met the inclusion criteria. Nine studies used sensor monitoring solely as a method for measuring daily functioning and detecting changes in daily functioning. These studies focused on the technical investigation of the sensor monitoring method used. The other studies investigated clinical applications in daily practice. The sensor data could enable healthcare professionals to detect alert conditions and periods of decline and could enable earlier intervention, although limited evidence of the effect of interventions was found in these studies because of a lack of high methodological quality.

Conclusion

Studies on the effectiveness of sensor monitoring to support people in daily functioning remain scarce. A road map for further development is proposed.
Trial for Reducing Weight Retention in New Mums: a randomised controlled trial evaluating a low intensity, postpartum weight management programme
Authors: Wilkinson S. A. , van der Pligt P. , Gibbons K. S. , McIntyre H. D.
Published: November 2013

Background

Failure to return to pregnancy weight by 6 months postpartum is associated with long‐term obesity, as well as adverse health outcomes. This research evaluated a postpartum weight management programme for women with a body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg m–2 that combined behaviour change principles and a low‐intensity delivery format with postpartum nutrition information.

Methods

Women were randomised at 24–28 weeks to control (supported care; SC) or intervention (enhanced care; EC) groups, stratified by BMI cohort. At 36 weeks of gestation, SC women received a ‘nutrition for breastfeeding' resource and EC women received a nutrition assessment and goal‐setting session about post‐natal nutrition, plus a 6‐month correspondence intervention requiring return of self‐monitoring sheets. Weight change, anthropometry, diet, physical activity, breastfeeding, fasting glucose and insulin measures were assessed at 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum.

Results

Seventy‐seven percent (40 EC and 41 SC) of the 105 women approached were recruited; 36 EC and 35 SC women received a programme and 66.7% and 48.6% completed the study, respectively. No significant differences were observed between any outcomes. Median [interquartile range (IQR)] weight change was EC: −1.1 (9.5) kg versus SC: −1.1 (7.5) kg (6 weeks to 6 months) and EC: +1.0  (8.7) kg versus SC: +2.3 (9) kg (prepregnancy to 6 months). Intervention women breastfed for half a month longer than control women (180 versus 164 days; P = 0.10). An average of 2.3 out of six activity sheets per participant was returned.

Conclusions

Despite low intervention engagement, the high retention rate suggests this remains an area of interest to women. Future strategies must facilitate women's engagement, be individually tailored, and include features that support behaviour change to decrease women's risk of chronic health issues.
Banking Competition, Collateral Constraints, and Optimal Monetary Policy
Authors: ANDRÉS JAVIER , ARCE ÓSCAR , THOMAS CARLOS
Published: November 2013

We analyze optimal monetary policy in a model with two distinct financial frictions: monopolistically competitive banks that charge endogenous lending spreads, and collateral constraints. We show that welfare maximization is equivalent to stabilization of four goals: inflation, output gap, the “consumption gap” between borrowers and savers, and a “housing gap” that measures the distortion in the distribution of the collateralizable asset between both groups. Collateral constraints create a trade‐off between stabilization goals. Following both productivity and financial shocks, and relative to strict inflation targeting, the optimal policy implies sharper movements in the policy rate, aimed primarily at reducing fluctuations in asset prices and hence in borrowers' net worth. The policy trade‐offs become amplified as banking competition increases, due to the fall in lending spreads and the resulting increase in borrowers' leverage.
Enhanced synthesis and release of dopamine in transgenic mice with gain‐of‐function α6* nAChRs
Authors: Wang Yuexiang , Lee Jang‐Won , Oh Gyeon , Grady Sharon R. , McIntosh J. Michael , Brunzell Darlene H. , Cannon Jason R. , Drenan Ryan M.
Published: November 2013

α6β2* nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs)s in the ventral tegmental area to nucleus accumbens (NAc) pathway are implicated in the response to nicotine, and recent work suggests these receptors play a role in the rewarding action of ethanol. Here, we studied mice expressing gain‐of‐function α6β2* nAChRs (α6L9′S mice) that are hypersensitive to nicotine and endogenous acetylcholine. Evoked extracellular dopamine (DA) levels were enhanced in α6L9′S NAc slices compared to control, non‐transgenic (non‐Tg) slices. Extracellular DA levels in both non‐Tg and α6L9′S slices were further enhanced in the presence of GBR12909, suggesting intact DA transporter function in both mouse strains. Ongoing α6β2* nAChR activation by acetylcholine plays a role in enhancing DA levels, as α‐conotoxin MII completely abolished evoked DA release in α6L9′S slices and decreased spontaneous DA release from striatal synaptosomes. In HPLC experiments, α6L9′S NAc tissue contained significantly more DA, 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid, and homovanillic acid compared to non‐Tg NAc tissue. Serotonin (5‐HT), 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid, and norepinephrine (NE) were unchanged in α6L9′S compared to non‐Tg tissue. Western blot analysis revealed increased tyrosine hydroxylase expression in α6L9′S NAc. Overall, these results show that enhanced α6β2* nAChR activity in NAc can stimulate DA production and lead to increased extracellular DA levels.

image

Using a transgenic mouse model, we studied nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) containing the α6 subunit and their role regulating dopamine (DA) synthesis and release in nucleus accumbens shell. Using a combination of biochemistry and electrophysiology techniques, we show that increased activity of α6‐containing nAChRs results in enhanced DA synthesis as well as increased extracellular DA levels following evoked release. These findings highlight the importance of α6 nAChRs in DA transmission, and indicate that compounds with pharmacological activity at these receptors may be useful smoking cessation therapeutics.
Fatty acid biosynthesis from glutamate and glutamine is specifically induced in neuronal cells under hypoxia
Authors: Brose Stephen A. , Marquardt Amanda L. , Golovko Mikhail Y.
Published: November 2013

Hypoxia is involved in many neuronal and non‐neuronal diseases, and defining the mechanisms for tissue adaptation to hypoxia is critical for the understanding and treatment of these diseases. One mechanism for tissue adaptation to hypoxia is increased glutamine and/or glutamate (Gln/Glu) utilization. To address this mechanism, we determined incorporation of Gln/Glu and other lipogenic substrates into lipids and fatty acids in both primary neurons and a neuronal cell line under normoxic and hypoxic conditions and compared this to non‐neuronal primary cells and non‐neuronal cell lines. Incorporation of Gln/Glu into total lipids was dramatically and specifically increased under hypoxia in neuronal cells including both primary (2.0‐ and 3.0‐fold for Gln and Glu, respectively) and immortalized cultures (3.5‐ and 8.0‐fold for Gln and Glu, respectively), and 90% to 97% of this increase was accounted for by incorporation into fatty acids (FA) depending upon substrate and cell type. All other non‐neuronal cells tested demonstrated decreased or unchanged FA synthesis from Gln/Glu under hypoxia. Consistent with these data, total FA mass was also increased in neuronal cells under hypoxia that was mainly accounted for by the increase in saturated and monounsaturated FA with carbon length from 14 to 24. Incorporation of FA synthesized from Gln/Glu was increased in all major lipid classes including cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols, diacylglycerols, free FA, and phospholipids, with the highest rate of incorporation into triacylglycerols. These results indicate that increased FA biosynthesis from Gln/Glu followed by esterification may be a neuronal specific pathway for adaptation to hypoxia.

image

We identified a novel neuronal specific pathway for adaptation to hypoxia through increased fatty acid biosynthesis from glutamine and glutamate (Gln/Glu) followed by esterification into lipids. All other non‐neuronal cells tested demonstrated decreased or unchanged lipid synthesis from Gln/Glu under hypoxia. Incorporation of other lipogenic substrates into lipids was decreased under hypoxia in neuronal cells. We believe that this finding will provide a novel strategy for treatment of oxygen and energy deficient conditions in the neuronal system.
Molecular, pharmacological, and signaling properties of octopamine receptors from honeybee (Apis mellifera) brain
Authors: Balfanz Sabine , Jordan Nadine , Langenstück Teresa , Breuer Johanna , Bergmeier Vera , Baumann Arnd
Published: November 2013

G protein‐coupled receptors are important regulators of cellular signaling processes. Within the large family of rhodopsin‐like receptors, those binding to biogenic amines form a discrete subgroup. Activation of biogenic amine receptors leads to transient changes of intracellular Ca2+‐([Ca2+]i) or 3′,5′‐cyclic adenosine monophosphate ([cAMP]i) concentrations. Both second messengers modulate cellular signaling processes and thereby contribute to long‐lasting behavioral effects in an organism. In vivo pharmacology has helped to reveal the functional effects of different biogenic amines in honeybees. The phenolamine octopamine is an important modulator of behavior. Binding of octopamine to its receptors causes elevation of [Ca2+]i or [cAMP]i. To date, only one honeybee octopamine receptor that induces Ca2+ signals has been molecularly and pharmacologically characterized. Here, we examined the pharmacological properties of four additional honeybee octopamine receptors. When heterologously expressed, all receptors induced cAMP production after binding to octopamine with EC50s in the nanomolar range. Receptor activity was most efficiently blocked by mianserin, a substance with antidepressant activity in vertebrates. The rank order of inhibitory potency for potential receptor antagonists was very similar on all four honeybee receptors with mianserin >> cyproheptadine > metoclopramide > chlorpromazine > phentolamine. The subroot of octopamine receptors activating adenylyl cyclases is the largest that has so far been characterized in arthropods, and it should now be possible to unravel the contribution of individual receptors to the physiology and behavior of honeybees.

image

The biogenic amine octopamine is an important modulator of behavior and physiology in arthropods. Binding of octopamine to specific G protein‐coupled receptors causes elevation of [Ca2+]i or [cAMP]i. Only one honeybee octopamine receptor inducing Ca2+ signals has been experimentally characterized, yet. Here, we present the pharmacological properties of four additional members of the honeybee octopamine receptor family causing cAMP production.
The rhythm of retinoids in the brain
Authors: Ransom Jemma , Morgan Peter J. , McCaffery Peter J. , Stoney Patrick N.
Published: November 2013

The retinoids are a family of compounds that in nature are derived from vitamin A or pro‐vitamin A carotenoids. An essential part of the diet for mammals, vitamin A has long been known to be essential for many organ systems in the adult. More recently, however, they have been shown to be necessary for function of the brain and new discoveries point to a central role in processes ranging from neuroplasticity to neurogenesis. Acting in several regions of the central nervous system including the eye, hippocampus and hypothalamus, one common factor in its action is control of biological rhythms. This review summarizes the role of vitamin A in the brain; its action through the metabolite retinoic acid via specific nuclear receptors, and the regulation of its concentration through controlled synthesis and catabolism. The action of retinoic acid to regulate several rhythms in the brain and body, from circadian to seasonal, is then discussed to finish with the importance of retinoic acid in the regular pattern of sleep.

image

We review the role of vitamin A and retinoic acid (RA) as mediators of rhythm in the brain. In the suprachiasmatic nucleus and hippocampus they control expression of circadian clock genes while in the cortex retinoic acid is required for delta oscillations of sleep. Retinoic acid is also central to a second rhythm that keeps pace with the seasons, regulating function in the hypothalamus and pineal gland.
Is the mTOR‐signalling cascade disrupted in Schizophrenia?
Authors: Gururajan Anand , van den Buuse Maarten
Published: November 2013

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling cascade is involved in the intracellular regulation of protein synthesis, specifically for proteins involved in controlling neuronal morphology and facilitating synaptic plasticity. Research has revealed that the activity of the mTOR cascade is influenced by several extracellular and environmental factors that have been implicated in schizophrenia. Therefore, there is reason to believe that one of the downstream consequences of dysfunction or hypofunction of these factors in schizophrenia is disrupted mTOR signalling and hence impaired protein synthesis. This results in abnormal neurodevelopment and deficient synaptic plasticity, outcomes which could underlie some of the positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia. This review will discuss the functional roles of the mTOR cascade and present evidence in support of a novel mTOR‐based hypothesis of the neuropathology of schizophrenia.

image

During neurodevelopment, genetic and epigenetic factors can disrupt mTOR signalling which affects synthesis of proteins essential for correct neuronal growth and network connectivity. This renders the CNS particularly vulnerable to the effects of secondary factors during adolescence which increases the risk of developing schizophrenia in adulthood. This review discusses the functional roles of the mTOR cascade and presents evidence in support of a novel mTOR‐based hypothesis of the neuropathology of schizophrenia. Testing this hypothesis will advance our understanding of the aetiology of this illness and reveal novel therapeutic targets.
Activation of rhodopsin gene transcription in cultured retinal precursors of chicken embryo: role of Ca2+ signaling and hyperpolarization‐activated cation channels
Authors: Bernard Marianne , Dejos Camille , Bergès Thierry , Régnacq Matthieu , Voisin Pierre
Published: November 2013

This study reports that the spontaneous 50‐fold activation of rhodopsin gene transcription, observed in cultured retinal precursors from 13‐day chicken embryo, relies on a Ca2+‐dependent mechanism. Activation of a transiently transfected rhodopsin promoter (luciferase reporter) in these cells was inhibited (60%) by cotransfection of a dominant‐negative form of the cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein. Both rhodopsin promoter activity and rhodopsin mRNA accumulation were blocked by Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II inhibitors, but not by protein kinase A inhibitors, suggesting a role of Ca2+ rather than cAMP. This was confirmed by the inhibitory effect of general and T‐type selective Ca2+ channel blockers. Oscillations in Ca2+ fluorescence (Fluo8) could be observed in 1/10 cells that activated the rhodopsin promoter (DsRed reporter). A robust and reversible inhibition of rhodopsin gene transcription by ZD7288 indicated a role of hyperpolarization‐activated channels (HCN). Cellular localization and developmental expression of HCN1 were compatible with a role in the onset of rhodopsin gene transcription. Together, the data suggest that the spontaneous activation of rhodopsin gene transcription in cultured retinal precursors results from a signaling cascade that involves the pacemaker activity of HCN channels, the opening of voltage‐gated Ca2+‐channels, activation of Ca2+/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II and phosphorylation of cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein.

image

Rhodopsin gene expression in cultured retinal precursors from chicken embryo relies on a Ca2+‐dependent mechanism whereby hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels (HCN) activate T‐type voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels (VDCC) through membrane depolarization, causing calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMKII) to phosphorylate the cAMP‐responsive element‐binding protein (CREB) and leading to activation of rhodopsin gene transcription. Photoreceptor localization and development of HCN1 channels suggest similar role in vivo.
Prism adaptation changes the subjective proprioceptive localization of the hands
Authors: Scarpina Federica , Van der Stigchel Stefan , Nijboer Tanja Cornelia Wilhelmina , Dijkerman Hendrik Christiaan
Published: November 2013

Prism adaptation involves a proprioceptive, a visual and a motor component. As the existing paradigms are not able to distinguish between these three components, the contribution of the proprioceptive component remains unclear. In the current study, a proprioceptive judgement task, in the absence of motor responses, was used to investigate how prism adaptation would specifically influences the felt position of the hands in healthy participants. The task was administered before and after adaptation to left and right displacing prisms using either the left or the right hand during the adaptation procedure. The results appeared to suggest that the prisms induced a drift in the felt position of the hands, although the after‐effect depended on the combination of the pointing hand and the visual deviation induced by prisms. The results are interpreted as in line with the hypothesis of an asymmetrical neural architecture of somatosensory processing. Moreover, the passive proprioception of the hand position revealed different effects of proprioceptive re‐alignment compared to active pointing straight ahead: different mechanisms about how visuo‐proprioceptive discrepancy is resolved were hypothesized.
Joint shape morphogenesis precedes cavitation of the developing hip joint
Authors: Nowlan Niamh C. , Sharpe James
Published: November 2013

The biology and mechanobiology of joint cavitation have undergone extensive investigation, but we have almost no understanding of the development of joint shape. Joint morphogenesis, the development of shape, has been identified as the ‘least understood aspect of joint formation’ (2005, Birth Defects Res C Embryo Today 75, 237), despite the clinical relevance of shape morphogenesis to postnatal skeletal malformations such as developmental dysplasia of the hip. In this study, we characterise development of early hip joint shape in the embryonic chick using direct capture 3D imaging. Contrary to formerly held assumptions that cavitation precedes morphogenesis in joint development, we have found that the major anatomical features of the adult hip are present at Hamburger Hamilton (HH)32, a full day prior to cavitation of the joint at HH34. We also reveal that the pelvis undergoes significant changes in orientation with respect to the femur, despite the lack of a joint cavity between the rudiments. Furthermore, we have identified the appearance of the ischium and pubis several developmental stages earlier than was previously reported, illustrating the value and importance of direct capture 3D imaging.
Assessment of Perfusion Deficits in Ischemic Stroke Using 3D‐GRASE Arterial Spin Labeling Magnetic Resonance Imaging with Multiple Inflow Times
Authors: Wolf Marc E. , Layer Vanessa , Gregori Johannes , Griebe Martin , Szabo Kristina , Gass Achim , Hennerici Michael G. , Günther Matthias , Kern Rolf
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Arterial spin labeling (ASL) MRI provides information on tissue perfusion by consecutive readout of labeled blood captured in arteries or the microvasculature without using contrast agents.

METHODS

We used a single‐shot 3D acquisition and readout technique for ASL with multiple inflow times (TI) to evaluate hemodynamic compromise and dynamics of arterial blood inflow expressed by the bolus arrival time (BAT). Thirty‐six patients with ischemic stroke were examined with a standard multimodal MRI protocol including dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) and multi‐TI ASL perfusion imaging. Time‐to‐peak maps were used to classify hemodynamic impairment as either hypo‐ or hyperperfusion.

RESULTS

Overall there was a good agreement of ASL perfusion maps with DSC perfusion imaging on visual analysis. Correlations were found between ASL‐BAT/(DSC‐)Mean transit time (MTT) (r = .416; P < .01) and ASL‐CBF/MTT (r = –.489; P < .01). Using ASL, BAT in ischemic territory was delayed by 55% (P = .001) in patients with hypoperfusion (n = 28); CBF was reduced by 39% (P<.001). All patients with hyperperfusion (n = 6) had higher CBF on ASL.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of ASL with multiple TI allows the contrast‐free assessment of hemodynamic impairment in ischemic stroke patients. Quantitative ASL perfusion analysis reliably demonstrates areas of delayed BAT and reduced CBF matching findings of DSC.
Stenting and Angioplasty for Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension: A Case Series with Clinical, Angiographic, Ophthalmological, Complication, and Pressure Reporting
Authors: Teleb Mohamed S. , Cziep Matthew E. , Issa Mohammad , Lazzaro Marc , Asif Kaiz , Hun Hong Sang , Lynch John R. , Fitzsimmons Brian‐Fred M. , Remler Bernd F. , Zaidat Osama O.
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have demonstrated that cerebral dural sinus stenosis (DSS) may be a potential patho‐physiological cause of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Endovascular therapy for DSS is emerging as a potential alternative to treat IIH. Here, we present the results of our case series.

METHOD

We prospectively collected angiographic and manometric data on patients that underwent angioplasty/stenting for IIH. All patients had failed maximal medical therapy (MMT) and had confirmed sinus stenosis. Demographic, clinical and radiological presentation, and outcomes were collected retrospectively.

RESULTS

A total of 18 patients underwent 25 procedures. Demographics revealed a mean age of 30 (range 15‐59), 83% (15/18) were female, 72% (13/18) were white, and mean body mass index of 36 (range 23‐59.2). All patients presented with classic IIH. Symptom improvement or resolution was reported in 94% (17/18) of patients. All patients had resolution and/or stabilization/improvement of their papilledema. Headaches related to increased pressure improved in 56% (10/18). Re‐stenosis and retreatment occurred in 33% (6/18). No procedural related complications were reported.

CONCLUSION

Dural sinus angioplasty and stenting is relatively safe, feasible, and clinically efficacious for patients with symptomatic sinus stenosis who have failed standard therapy. The long‐term durability of patency and clinical improvement remains unknown.
The Immigrant Paradox in Pregnancy: Explaining the First‐Generation Advantage for Latina Adolescents
Authors: Guarini Tristan E. , Marks Amy K. , Patton Flannery , García Coll Cynthia
Published: November 2013

The immigrant paradox is a population health pattern whereby later generation immigrant youth display less favorable outcomes when compared to first‐generation co‐ethnic peers. This study examines the role of number of sex partners in explaining the immigrant paradox in pregnancy among Latina adolescents. This secondary analysis utilized a nationally representative sample of Latinas in the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health. As expected, first‐generation Latina adolescents demonstrated less risk than second‐ or third+ generation Latinas for becoming pregnant. Further, the lower number of sexual partners fully accounted for the first generation's advantage in lower rate of adolescent pregnancy. These findings have important implications for healthcare providers who work with Latina girls in pregnancy prevention.
Burnout and Mental Health in Swiss Vocational Students: The Moderating Role of Physical Activity
Authors: Gerber Markus , Lang Christin , Feldmeth Anne Karina , Elliot Catherine , Brand Serge , Holsboer‐Trachsler Edith , Pühse Uwe
Published: November 2013

Few studies have focused on burnout among vocational students. This study examined the association between burnout and mental health among 56 Swiss vocational students (29 males, 27 females, M = 18.1, SD = 1.2 years) and tested whether recommended levels of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) attenuate this relationship. Burnout was strongly associated with increased depressive symptoms and decreased levels of life satisfaction, mental toughness, and quality of sleep. Students above recommended levels of MVPA reported lower burnout and higher mental health. No significant moderator effects were observed. Symptoms of burnout were associated with increased mental health problems. Physical activity should be promoted to prevent burnout, because nearly half of the students did not meet MVPA recommendations.
Fecal Microbiota of Cats with Naturally Occurring Chronic Diarrhea Assessed Using 16S rRNA Gene 454‐Pyrosequencing before and after Dietary Treatment
Authors: Ramadan Z. , Xu H. , Laflamme D. , Czarnecki‐Maulden G. , Li Q.J. , Labuda J. , Bourqui B.
Published: November 2013

Background

The gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota has a strong impact on the health of cats and these populations can be altered in GI disease. Little research has been done to associate improvement in diarrhea with changes in GI microbiota.

Objective

To evaluate GI microbiota changes associated with diet change and related improvement in diarrhea in cats with chronic naturally occurring diarrhea.

Animals

Fifteen adult Domestic Shorthair cats with naturally occurring chronic diarrhea.

Methods

Controlled crossover dietary trial for management of diarrhea. Fecal microbiome was assessed using 454‐pyrosequencing. Relationships among fecal score (FS), diet, and microbiome were explored using partial least square method, partial least square method – discriminant analysis, and orthogonal partial least square method with discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA).

Results

Dominant bacterial phyla included the Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, followed by Fusobacteria, Proteobacteria, Tenericutes, and Actinobacteria. Orthogonal partial least squares (OPLS‐DA) clustering showed significant microbial differences within cats when fed Diet X versus Diet Y, and with Diet Y versus baseline. Significant correlations were found between the microbiome and FSs. Those bacteria with the strongest correlation with FS included Coriobacteriaceae Slackia spp., Campylobacter upsaliensis, Enterobacteriaceae Raoultella spp., Coriobacteriaceae Collinsella spp., and bacteria of unidentified genera within the families of Clostridiales Lachnospiracea and Aeromonadales Succinivibrionacease, suggesting that increased numbers of these organisms may be important to gut health.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Alterations in intestinal microbiota were associated with improvement in diarrhea, but, from our data we cannot conclude if changes in the microbiome caused the improvement in diarrhea, or vice versa.
HCV protein‐induced cytokine predicts treatment outcomes in chronic hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Krueger Carla , Collister Mark , Minuk Gerald Y. , Janke Alyssa , Lerner Jordyn , Wong Stephen G. M. , Rempel Julia D.
Published: November 2013

Background & Aims

Immune‐mediated processes are thought to influence the efficacy of treatment in chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. This study evaluated the association of baseline immune responses with the achievement of a sustained viral response (SVR) upon pegylated interferon and ribavirin treatment.

Methods

Baseline serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cytokine activity was assessed. Metabolic and liver injury parameters were evaluated as underlying factors.

Results

Baseline demographics and disease parameters did not differ between the SVR− (n = 14) and SVR+ (n = 25) cohorts except for body mass index (BMI) values and liver injury scores. Baseline circulating TNF‐α levels were three‐fold higher with subsequent treatment failure vs. success (P = 0.124). Baseline peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC, n = 25) were cultured with HCV core and non‐structural (NS)3 proteins. Core (P = 0.0003) and NS3 (P = 0.018) induced greater TNF‐α production within the SVR−, compared with the SVR+, cohorts. Similar findings were noted for interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐10 synthesis. Furthermore, HCV core‐induced TNF‐α synthesis correlated with patient BMI values (r = 0.489, P = 0.015). Core (r = 0.432, P = 0.065) and NS3 (r = 0.530, P = 0.020)‐induced TNF‐α displayed a positive relationship with serum adiponectin concentrations. In addition, lipopolysaccharide stimulated cytokine synthesis associated with BMI and adiponectin levels. Although unable to predict treatment outcomes, NS3‐induced IL‐6 synthesis and serum leptin concentrations corresponded to liver injury scores.

Conclusion

An enhanced PBMC susceptibility to core and NS3‐induced TNF‐α synthesis at baseline was associated with treatment failure. This phenomenon appeared to involve the interaction of virally generated TNF‐α activity and metabolic disease. In contrast, IL‐6 activity and leptin levels may indicate liver damage.
Breaks in the UK Household Sector Money Demand Function
Authors: Bissoondeeal Rakesh , Karoglou Michail , Mullineux Andy
Published: November 2013

We use non‐parametric procedures to identify breaks in the underlying series of UK household sector money demand functions. Money demand functions are estimated using cointegration techniques and by employing both the Simple Sum and Divisia measures of money. P‐star models are also estimated for out‐of‐sample inflation forecasting. Our findings suggest that the presence of breaks affects both the estimation of cointegrated money demand functions and the inflation forecasts. P‐star forecast models based on Divisia measures appear more accurate at longer horizons and the majority of models with fundamentals perform better than a random walk model.
Evolutionary history ofPurple cone spruce (Picea purpurea) in theQinghai–TibetPlateau: homoploid hybrid origin andPleistocene expansion
Authors: Sun Yongshuai , Abbott Richard J. , Li Lili , Li Long , Zou Jiabin , Liu Jianquan
Published: November 2013

Hybridization and introgression can play an important role in speciation. Here, we examine their roles in the origin and evolution ofPicea purpurea, a diploid spruce species occurring on theQinghai–TibetPlateau (QTP). Phylogenetic relationships and ecological differences between this species and its relatives,P. schrenkiana,P. likiangensisandP. wilsonii,are unclear. To clarify them, we surveyed sequence variation within and between them for 11 nuclear loci, three chloroplast (cp) and two mitochondrial (mt)DNAfragments, and examined their ecological requirements using ecological niche modelling. Initial analyses based on 11 nuclear loci rejected a close relationship betweenP. schrenkiana andP. purpurea.BP&Ptests and ecological niche modelling indicated substantial divergence between the remaining three species and supported the species status ofP. purpurea,which contained many private alleles as expected for a well‐established species. Sequence variation for cpDNAand mtDNAsuggested a close relationship betweenP. purpureaandP. wilsonii, while variation at the nuclear se1364 gene suggestedP. purpureawas more closely related toP. likiangensis. Analyses of genetic divergence, Bayesian clustering and model comparison using approximateBayesian computation (ABC) of nuclear (nr)DNAvariation all supported the hypothesis thatP. purpureaoriginated by homoploid hybrid speciation fromP. wilsoniiandP. likiangensis. TheABCanalysis dated the origin ofP. purpureaat thePleistocene, and the estimated hybrid parameter indicated that 69% of its nuclear composition was contributed byP. likiangensisand 31% byP. wilsonii. Our results further suggested that during or immediately following its formation,P. purpureawas subject to organelleDNAintrogression fromP. wilsoniisuch that it came to possess both mtDNAand cpDNAofP. wilsonii. The estimated parameters indicated that following its origin,P. purpureaunderwent an expansion during/after the largestPleistocene glaciation recorded for theQTP.
Shared selective pressure and local genomic landscape lead to repeatable patterns of genomic divergence in sunflowers
Authors: Renaut Sebastien , Owens Gregory L. , Rieseberg Loren H.
Published: November 2013

The repeated evolution of traits in organisms facing similar environmental conditions is considered to be fundamental evidence for the role of natural selection in moulding phenotypes. Yet, aside from case studies of parallel evolution and its genetic basis, the repeatability of evolution at the level of the whole genome remains poorly characterized. Here, through the use of transcriptome sequencing, we examined genomic divergence for three pairs of sister species of sunflowers. Two of the pairs (Helianthus petiolaris – H. debilis and H. annuus – H. argophyllus) have diverged along a similar latitudinal gradient and presumably experienced similar selective pressure. In contrast, a third species pair (H. exilis – H. bolanderi) diverged along a longitudinal gradient. Analyses of divergence, as measured in terms of FST, indicated little repeatability across the three pairs of species for individual genetic markers (SNPs), modest repeatability at the level of individual genes and the highest repeatability when large regions of the genome were compared. As expected, higher repeatability was observed for the two species pairs that have diverged along a similar latitudinal gradient, with genes involved in flowering time among the most divergent genes. Genes showing extreme low or high differentiation were more similar than genes showing medium levels of divergence, implying that both purifying and divergent selection contributed to repeatable patterns of divergence. The location of a gene along the chromosome also predicted divergence levels, presumably because of shared heterogeneity in both recombination and mutation rates. In conclusion, repeated genome evolution appeared to result from both similar selective pressures and shared local genomic landscapes.
Beyond survival; influences of blood pressure, cerebral perfusion and anesthesia on neurodevelopment
Authors: McCann Mary Ellen , Schouten Anton N.J.
Published: November 2013

Neonates have a higher perioperative mortality risk largely due to the degree of prior illness of the infants, the complexity of their surgeries, and infant physiology. It is important to consider contributing anesthetic factors during the perioperative period that may affect cerebral perfusion and neurocognitive outcome, such as alterations in hemodynamics and ventilation. Limitations of blood pressure as a marker for cerebral perfusion are discussed, as well as the effect of hypocapnia on the brain.
Cost Drivers of Prescription Opioid Abuse in Commercial and Medicare Populations
Authors: Pasquale Margaret K. , Joshi Ashish V. , Dufour Robert , Schaaf David , Mardekian Jack , Andrews George A. , Patel Nick C.
Published: November 2013

Objective

Growth in the number of patients with pain conditions, and the subsequent rise in prescription opioid use for treatment, has been accompanied by an increase in diagnosed opioid abuse. Understanding what drives the incremental healthcare costs of members diagnosed with prescription opioid abuse may assist in developing better screening techniques for abuse.

Design

This retrospective analysis examined costs, resource use, and comorbidities 365 days pre‐ and postdiagnosis in prescription opioid users diagnosed with abuse (cases) vs. their matched nondiagnosed controls. Inclusion criteria for cases were diagnosis of opioid abuse (ICD‐9‐CM: 304.0x, 304.7x, 305.5x, 965.0x). Multivariate analysis used generalized linear modeling with log‐transformed cost as dependent variable, controlling for comorbidities.

Results

Final sample sizes were 8,390 cases and 16,780 matched controls. Postindex abuse‐related costs were $2,099 for commercial members, $539 for Medicare members aged < 65, and $170 for Medicare members aged ≥ 65. A higher percentage of cases had pain conditions (82.0% vs. 57.4% commercial, 95.9% vs. 87.5% Medicare members aged < 65, 92.9% vs. 82.4% Medicare members aged ≥ 65, P < 0.0001), and a higher numbers of cases had multiple opioid prescribers (3.7 vs. 1.4 commercial, 3.3 vs. 2.2 Medicare < 65, 2.2 vs. 1.6 Medicare ≥ 65, P < 0.0001) than controls preindex. Cases had higher rates of substance abuse and psychiatric diagnoses pre‐ and postindex (P < 0.0001, all comparisons). Adjusted costs were 28% higher for cases than for controls (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Costs of members diagnosed with prescription opioid abuse are driven by higher pain and psychiatric comorbidities relative to nonabuse controls.
Approaches for enhancement of N2 fixation efficiency of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under limiting nitrogen conditions
Authors: Nasr Esfahani Maryam , Sulieman Saad , Schulze Joachim , Yamaguchi‐Shinozaki Kazuko , Shinozaki Kazuo , Tran Lam‐Son
Published: November 2013

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) is an important pulse crop in many countries in the world. The symbioses between chickpea and Mesorhizobia, which fix N2 inside the root nodules, are of particular importance for chickpea's productivity. With the aim of enhancing symbiotic efficiency in chickpea, we compared the symbiotic efficiency of C‐15, Ch‐191 and CP‐36 strains of Mesorhizobium ciceri in association with the local elite chickpea cultivar ‘Bivanij’ as well as studied the mechanism underlying the improvement of N2 fixation efficiency. Our data revealed that C‐15 strain manifested the most efficient N2 fixation in comparison with Ch‐191 or CP‐36. This finding was supported by higher plant productivity and expression levels of the nifHDK genes in C‐15 nodules. Nodule specific activity was significantly higher in C‐15 combination, partially as a result of higher electron allocation to N2 versus H+. Interestingly, a striking difference in nodule carbon and nitrogen composition was observed. Sucrose cleavage enzymes displayed comparatively lower activity in nodules established by either Ch‐191 or CP‐36. Organic acid formation, particularly that of malate, was remarkably higher in nodules induced by C‐15 strain. As a result, the best symbiotic efficiency observed with C‐15‐induced nodules was reflected in a higher concentration of the total and several major amino metabolites, namely asparagine, glutamine, glutamate and aspartate. Collectively, our findings demonstrated that the improved efficiency in chickpea symbiotic system, established with C‐15, was associated with the enhanced capacity of organic acid formation and the activities of the key enzymes connected to the nodule carbon and nitrogen metabolism.
Low levels of ribosomal RNA partly account for the very high photosynthetic phosphorus‐use efficiency of Proteaceae species
Authors: SULPICE RONAN , ISHIHARA HIROFUMI , SCHLERETH ARMIN , CAWTHRAY GREGORY R. , ENCKE BEATRICE , GIAVALISCO PATRICK , IVAKOV ALEXANDER , ARRIVAULT STÉPHANIE , JOST RICARDA , KROHN NICOLE , KUO JOHN , LALIBERTÉ ETIENNE , PEARSE STUART J. , RAVEN JOHN A. , SCHEIBLE WOLF‐RÜDIGER , TESTE FRANÇOIS , VENEKLAAS ERIK J. , STITT MARK , LAMBERS HANS
Published: November 2013

Proteaceae species in south‐western Australia occur on phosphorus‐ (P) impoverished soils. Their leaves contain very low P levels, but have relatively high rates of photosynthesis. We measured ribosomal RNA (rRNA) abundance, soluble protein, activities of several enzymes and glucose 6‐phosphate (Glc6P) levels in expanding and mature leaves of six Proteaceae species in their natural habitat. The results were compared with those for Arabidopsis thaliana. Compared with A. thaliana, immature leaves of Proteaceae species contained very low levels of rRNA, especially plastidic rRNA. Proteaceae species showed slow development of the photosynthetic apparatus (‘delayed greening’), with young leaves having very low levels of chlorophyll and Calvin–Benson cycle enzymes. In mature leaves, soluble protein and Calvin–Benson cycle enzyme activities were low, but Glc6P levels were similar to those in A. thaliana. We propose that low ribosome abundance contributes to the high P efficiency of these Proteaceae species in three ways: (1) less P is invested in ribosomes; (2) the rate of growth and, hence, demand for P is low; and (3) the especially low plastidic ribosome abundance in young leaves delays formation of the photosynthetic machinery, spreading investment of P in rRNA. Although Calvin–Benson cycle enzyme activities are low, Glc6P levels are maintained, allowing their effective use.
Secondary metabolite from Nostoc XPORK14A inhibits photosynthesis and growth of Synechocystis PCC 6803
Authors: SHUNMUGAM SUMATHY , JOKELA JOUNI , WAHLSTEN MATTI , BATTCHIKOVA NATALIA , REHMAN ATEEQ UR , VASS IMRE , KARONEN MAARIT , SINKKONEN JARI , PERMI PERTTU , SIVONEN KAARINA , ARO EVA‐MARI , ALLAHVERDIYEVA YAGUT
Published: November 2013

Screening of 55 different cyanobacterial strains revealed that an extract from Nostoc XPORK14A drastically modifies the amplitude and kinetics of chlorophyll a fluorescence induction of Synechocystis PCC 6803 cells. After 2 d exposure to the Nostoc XPORK14A extract, Synechocystis PCC 6803 cells displayed reduced net photosynthetic activity and significantly modified electron transport properties of photosystem II under both light and dark conditions. However, the maximum oxidizable amount of P700 was not strongly affected. The extract also induced strong oxidative stress in Synechocystis PCC 6803 cells in both light and darkness. We identified the secondary metabolite of Nostoc XPORK14A causing these pronounced effects on Synechocystis cells. Mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance analyses revealed that this compound, designated as M22, has a non‐peptide structure. We propose that M22 possesses a dual‐action mechanism: firstly, by photogeneration of reactive oxygen species in the presence of light, which in turn affects the photosynthetic machinery of Synechocystis PCC 6803; and secondly, by altering the in vivo redox status of cells, possibly through inhibition of protein kinases.
Altered growth and improved resistance of Arabidopsis against Pseudomonas syringae by overexpression of the basic amino acid transporter AtCAT1
Authors: YANG HUAIYU , POSTEL SANDRA , KEMMERLING BIRGIT , LUDEWIG UWE
Published: November 2013

Amino acid transporters in plants are crucial for distributing amino acids between plant organs and cellular compartments. The H+‐coupled plasma membrane transporter CAT1 (cationic amino acid transporter 1) facilitates the high‐affinity uptake of basic amino acids. The uptake of lysine (Lys) via the roots was not altered in loss‐of‐function mutants, in accordance with the minor expression of CAT1 in roots, but plants ectopically overexpressing CAT1 incorporated Lys at higher rates. Exogenous Lys inhibited the primary root of Arabidopsis, whereas lateral roots were stimulated. These effects were augmented by the presence or absence of CAT1. Furthermore, the total biomass of soil‐grown plants ectopically overexpressing CAT1 was reduced and the time to flowering was accelerated. These effects were accompanied by only minor changes in the overall amino acid profile. Interestingly, CAT1 belongs to a specific small cluster of nitrogen‐containing metabolite transporter genes that are rapidly up‐regulated upon infection with Pseudomonas syringae and that may participate in the systemic response of plants to pathogen attack. The overexpression of CAT1 indeed enhanced the resistance to the hemibiotrophic bacterial pathogen P. syringae via a constitutively activated salicylic acid (SA) pathway, which is consistent with the developmental defects and the resistance phenotype.
Localized Mastocytosis of the Vulva
Authors: Berry Tammy , Strand Megan , Smidt Aimee C. , Torrelo Antonio
Published: November 2013

Mastocytosis is a relatively common disorder characterized by mast cell collections in the skin and other organ systems. Affected children are more likely than adults to have limited cutaneous disease. We report two patients with localized vulvar mastocytosis in the absence of other cutaneous findings and review previous reports of vulvar involvement in cutaneous mastocytosis.
Laboratory predictors of acute dialysis in hemolytic uremic syndrome
Authors: Balestracci Alejandro , Martin Sandra Mariel , Toledo Ismael , Alvarado Caupolican , Wainsztein Raquel Eva
Published: November 2013

Background

Strict guidelines on use of dialysis in children with post‐diarrheal hemolytic uremic syndrome (D + HUS) are lacking. This study investigated laboratory predictors of acute dialysis because they are more objective than clinical features. Added to this, given that urine output is also an objective parameter, its ability to predict dialysis requirements was also investigated.

Methods

Out of 153 D + HUS children reviewed, 88 received dialysis and 65 did not. Initial laboratory parameters and diuresis between both groups were analyzed.

Results

Dialyzed patients had higher creatinine, urea, alanine aminotransferase, hematocrit and leukocyte count; and lower sodium, bicarbonate, and pH compared to non‐dialyzed ones. Serum creatinine was the only independent predictor (P = 0.003) of dialysis; therefore, its ability to predict dialysis was estimated on receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and using the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) staging system. Area under the ROC curve was 0.92 (95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.83–1) with a creatinine cut‐off of 1.25 mg/dL (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 76.5%) for children <1 year, and 0.93 (95%CI: 0.88–0.98) with a threshold of 2 mg/dL (sensitivity, 91%; specificity, 87.5%) for older children. AKIN stage 3 at admission predicted dialysis with a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 84.2%. Urine output had the highest accuracy for dialysis prediction (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 95.3%).

Conclusions

Initial serum creatinine concentration was the best laboratory predictor of dialysis, but the first 24 h diuresis was even better for this purpose. But, given that serum creatinine is an immediate available parameter, the cut‐offs identified may label D + HUS children who will probably need dialysis, prompting early referral to centers able to provide dialysis.