bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risky Drinking, Alcohol Use Disorders, and Health Services Utilization in the U.S. General Population: Data from the 2005 and 2010 National Alcohol Surveys
Authors: Cherpitel Cheryl J. , Ye Yu
Published: July 2015

Background

While alcohol‐related problems have been found to be overrepresented in clinical samples of patients, less is known about health services utilization in the general population.

Methods

To explore the association of risky drinking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) with inpatient and outpatient services utilization, data are analyzed from a merged sample of 13,165 respondents in the 2005 and 2010 U.S. National Alcohol Surveys. Propensity score weighting was used to minimize potential bias associated with the heterogeneity in individual‐level characteristics across respondents which might influence these relationships.

Results

No significant differences were found between risky and nonrisky drinkers on any of the utilization variables in the last year, with 11% reporting an emergency room (ER) visit, a third reporting a primary care visit, and 6.2 to 7.6% reporting hospitalization. Those with an AUD were significantly more likely than those without to report an ER visit in the last year (18.2% vs. 11.6%; p = 0.003) as well as a greater number of such visits (p = 0.007), and to report more primary care visits (p = 0.05) and any hospitalization (11.2% vs. 6.7%; p = 0.019).

Conclusions

The data suggest a significant and potentially costly increase in health services utilization due to AUD. ERs and primary care settings would benefit from devoting increased resources to addressing AUD, which could result in clinical benefits of improvement in overall health status as well as economic benefits in lowering healthcare costs for both patients and society as a whole.
The Role of miR‐212 and iNOS in Alcohol‐Induced Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction and Steatohepatitis
Authors: Tang Yueming , Zhang Lijuan , Forsyth Christopher B. , Shaikh Maliha , Song Shiwen , Keshavarzian Ali
Published: July 2015

Background

Alcoholic liver disease is commonly associated with intestinal barrier dysfunction. Alcohol‐induced dysregulation of intestinal tight junction proteins, such as Zonula Occludens‐1 (ZO‐1), plays an important role in alcohol‐induced gut leakiness. However, the mechanism of alcohol‐induced disruption of tight junction proteins is not well established. The goal of this study was to elucidate this mechanism by studying the role of microRNA 212 (miR‐212) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in alcohol‐induced gut leakiness.

Methods

The permeability of the Caco‐2 monolayer was assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance and flux of fluorescein sulfonic acid. miR‐212 was measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The wild‐type, iNOS knockout, and miR‐212 knockdown mice were fed with alcohol diet (29% of total calories, 4.5% v/v) for 8 weeks. The LNA‐anti‐miR‐212 was used to inhibit miR‐212 expression in mice. The alcohol‐induced intestinal permeability, miR‐212 expression, and liver injuries in mice were measured.

Results

Our in vitro monolayer and in vivo mice studies showed that: (i) alcohol‐induced overexpression of the intestinal miR‐212 and intestinal hyperpermeability is prevented using miR‐212 knockdown techniques; and (ii) iNOS is up‐regulated in the intestine by alcohol and that iNOS signaling is required for alcohol‐induced miR‐212 overexpression, ZO‐1 disruption, gut leakiness, and steatohepatitis.

Conclusions

These studies thus support a novel miR‐212 mechanism for alcohol‐induced gut leakiness and a potential target that could be exploited for therapeutic intervention to prevent leaky gut and liver injury in alcoholics.
Rich Sentiments and the Cultural Politics of Emotion in Postreform Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Authors: Tran Allen L.
Published: July 2015

Linking socioeconomic and personal transformations, recent scholarship on neoliberalism in East and Southeast Asia has examined the role of various emotional experiences in reconfiguring selfhood toward values of personal responsibility and self‐care. However, studies rarely focus on how such experiences come to be understood as specifically emotional themselves. In this article, I examine the growing use of emotion (cảm xúc) as a conceptual category to define the self and everyday life in a psychologistic idiom among middle‐class residents of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. While more established discourses of sentiment (tình cảm) define selfhood in relation to notions of obligation and care, the emerging model of emotion emphasizes individuated self‐knowledge. However, instead of replacing sentiment, newer understandings of emotion have developed alongside and in relation to sentiment. In categorizing various feelings as explicitly “emotional” in nature, people participate in a self‐fashioning project that cultivates an emotionally aware and expressive self that is informed by neoliberal sensibilities yet does not supplant socialist or Confucian models of selfhood. I argue that emotions are not only central to the subjective experience of the transition to a market‐oriented economy but also that emotion as a category itself is a medium through which economic transformations reorganize selfhood more generally. [emotion, self, neoliberalism, ethnopsychology, Vietnam]
Physico‐chemical characteristics of Longissimus lumborum muscle in goats subjected to halal slaughter and anesthesia (halothane) pre‐slaughter
Authors: Sabow Azad Behnan , Sazili Awis Qurni , Zulkifli Idrus , Goh Yong Meng , Kadir Mohd Zainal Abidin AB , Adeyemi Kazeem Dauda
Published: July 2015

This study assessed the effect of halal slaughter and anesthesia pre‐slaughter followed by bleeding on meat quality characteristics of goats. Eleven male Boer cross goats were divided into two groups and subjected to either halal slaughter (HS) or anesthesia with halothane and propofol pre‐slaughter (AS). At pre‐rigor, HS had significantly lower (P < 0.05) muscle pH and glycogen than AS. However, no significant difference was observed in the pH and glycogen content between the treatments on 1, 3 and 7 days post mortem. The drip loss of HS was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that of AS at all aging periods. Treatment had no effect on sarcomere length, myofibrillar fragmentation index and shear force values, loss of thiol groups and degradation of major myofibrillar proteins. It can be concluded that HS did not have deleterious effect on meat quality traits of goat when compared to AS.
In vitro rumen fermentation and digestibility of buffaloes as influenced by grape pomace powder and urea treated rice straw supplementation
Authors: Foiklang Suban , Wanapat Metha , Norrapoke Thitima
Published: July 2015

This study aimed to investigate the effect of grape pomace powder levels and roughage sources on gas kinetics, digestibility and fermentation of swamp buffaloes by using in vitro techniques. The experimental design was a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design. Factor A was two sources of roughage (untreated rice straw, RS, and 3% urea treated rice straw, UTRS) and factor B was four levels of grape pomace powder (GPP) supplementation (0, 2, 4, 6% of substrate) on a dry matter basis. Results revealed that GPP supplementation at 2, 4 and 6% of substrate influenced gas kinetics. Cumulative gas production tended to be lower in the supplemented group. In vitro true digestibility was higher in the GPP supplementation at 2% with UTRS while microbial mass was higher in the supplemented groups. Supplementation of GPP significantly increased the total volatile fatty acids, especially propionate. Calculated methane production was subsequently decreased in the supplemented groups. Bacterial population was higher while protozoal population was lower by GPP supplementation. It could be concluded that supplementation of GPP at 2% of the substrate with UTRS improved in vitro true digestibility, rumen fermentation end‐products as well as reducing methane production.
How to manage patients with hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Geisthoff Urban W. , Nguyen Ha‐Long , Röth Alexander , Seyfert Ulrich
Published: July 2015

Hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia is a rare systemic autosomal dominantly inherited disorder of the fibrovascular tissue with a wide variety of clinical manifestations. Diagnosis is based on the clinical Curaçao criteria or molecular genetic testing. Dilated vessels can develop into telangiectases or larger vascular malformations in various organs, calling for an interdisciplinary approach. Epistaxis and gastrointestinal bleeding can result from these vascular defects. Various conservative and interventional treatments have been described for these conditions. However, no optimal therapy exists. Treatment can become especially difficult due to progressive anaemia or when anticoagulant or anti‐thrombotic therapy becomes necessary. Screening for pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVM) should be performed in all confirmed and suspected patients. Treatment by percutaneous transcatheter embolotherapy and antibiotic prophylaxis is normally effective for PAVM. Cerebral or hepatic vascular malformations and rare manifestations need to be evaluated on a case‐by‐case basis to determine the best course of action for treatment.
Tamibarotene in patients with acute promyelocytic leukaemia relapsing after treatment with all‐trans retinoic acid and arsenic trioxide
Authors: Sanford David , Lo‐Coco Francesco , Sanz Miguel A. , Di Bona Eros , Coutre Steven , Altman Jessica K. , Wetzler Meir , Allen Steven L. , Ravandi Farhad , Kantarjian Hagop , Cortes Jorge E.
Published: July 2015

Treatment of acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) with arsenic trioxide (ATO) and all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is highly effective first‐line therapy, although approximately 5–10% of patients relapse. Tamibarotene is a synthetic retinoid with activity in APL patients who relapse after chemotherapy and ATRA, but has not been studied in relapse after treatment with ATO and ATRA. We report on a phase II study of tamibarotene in adult patients with relapsed or refractory APL after treatment with ATRA and ATO (n = 14). Participants were treated with tamibarotene (6 mg/m2/d) during induction and for up to six cycles of consolidation. The overall response rate was 64% (n = 9), the rate of complete cytogenetic response was 43% (n = 6) and the rate of complete molecular response was 21% (n = 3). Relapse was frequent with 7 of 9 responders relapsing after a median of 4·6 months (range 1·6–26·8 months). The median event‐free survival (EFS) was 3·5 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 0–8·6 months] and the median overall survival (OS) was 9·5 months (95% CI 5·9–13·1 months). These results demonstrate that tamibarotene has activity in relapsed APL after treatment with ATO and ATRA and further studies using tamibarotene as initial therapy and in combination with ATO are warranted.
Platelet and not erythrocyte microparticles are procoagulant in transfused thalassaemia major patients
Authors: Agouti Imane , Cointe Sylvie , Robert Stéphane , Judicone Coralie , Loundou Anderson , Driss Fathi , Brisson Alain , Steschenko Dominique , Rose Christian , Pondarré Corinne , Bernit Emmanuelle , Badens Catherine , Dignat‐George Françoise , Lacroix Romaric , Thuret Isabelle
Published: July 2015

The level of circulating platelet‐, erythrocyte‐, leucocyte‐ and endothelial‐derived microparticles detected by high‐sensitivity flow cytometry was investigated in 37 β‐thalassaemia major patients receiving a regular transfusion regimen. The phospholipid procoagulant potential of the circulating microparticles and the microparticle‐dependent tissue factor activity were evaluated. A high level of circulating erythrocyte‐ and platelet‐microparticles was found. In contrast, the number of endothelial microparticles was within the normal range. Platelet microparticles were significantly higher in splenectomized than in non‐splenectomized patients, independent of platelet count (P < 0·001). Multivariate analysis indicated that phospholipid‐dependent procoagulant activity was influenced by both splenectomy (P = 0·001) and platelet microparticle level (P < 0·001). Erythrocyte microparticles were not related to splenectomy, appear to be devoid of proper procoagulant activity and no relationship between their production and haemolysis, dyserythropoiesis or oxidative stress markers could be established. Intra‐microparticle labelling with anti‐HbF antibodies showed that they originate only partially (median of 28%) from thalassaemic erythropoiesis. In conclusion, when β‐thalassaemia major patients are intensively transfused, the procoagulant activity associated with thalassaemic erythrocyte microparticles is probably diluted by transfusions. In contrast, platelet microparticles, being both more elevated and more procoagulant, especially after splenectomy, may contribute to the residual thrombotic risk reported in splenectomized multi‐transfused β‐thalassaemia major patients.
Simulating the influence of plasma protein on measured receptor affinity in biochemical assays reveals the utility of Schild analysis for estimating compound affinity for plasma proteins
Authors: Blakeley D , Sykes D A , Ensor P , Bertran E , Aston P J , Charlton S J
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose

Plasma protein binding (PPB) influences the free fraction of drug available to bind to its target and is therefore an important consideration in drug discovery. While traditional methods for assessing PPB (e.g. rapid equilibrium dialysis) are suitable for comparing compounds with relatively weak PPB, they are not able to accurately discriminate between highly bound compounds (typically >99.5%). The aim of the present work was to use mathematical modelling to explore the potential utility of receptor binding and cellular functional assays to estimate the affinity of compounds for plasma proteins. Plasma proteins are routinely added to in vitro assays, so a secondary goal was to investigate the effect of plasma proteins on observed ligand–receptor interactions.

Experimental Approach

Using the principle of conservation of mass and the law of mass action, a cubic equation was derived describing the ligand–receptor complex [LR] in the presence of plasma protein at equilibrium.

Key Results

The model demonstrates the profound influence of PPB on in vitro assays and identifies the utility of Schild analysis, which is usually applied to determine receptor‐antagonist affinities, for calculating affinity at plasma proteins (termed KP). We have also extended this analysis to functional effects using operational modelling and demonstrate that these approaches can also be applied to cell‐based assay systems.

Conclusions and Implications

These mathematical models can potentially be used in conjunction with experimental data to estimate drug‐plasma protein affinities in the earliest phases of drug discovery programmes.
Use of targeted next‐generation sequencing for molecular diagnosis of craniosynostosis: Identification of a novel de novo mutation of EFNB1
Authors: Yamamoto Toshiyuki , Igarashi Naru , Shimojima Keiko , Sangu Noriko , Sakamoto Yuko , Shimoji Kazuaki , Niijima Shinichi
Published: July 2015

Craniofrontonasal syndrome (CFNS; MIM#304110) is characterized by asymmetric facial features with hypertelorism and a broad bifid nose due to synostosis of the coronal suture. CFNS shows a unique X‐linked inheritance pattern (most affected patients are female and obligate male carriers exhibit a mild manifestation or no typical features at all) associated with the ephrin‐B1 gene (EFNB1) located in the Xq13.1 region. In this study, we performed targeted, massively parallel sequencing using a next‐generation sequencer, and identified a novel EFNB1 mutation, c.270_271delCA, in a Japanese female patient with craniosynostosis. Because subsequent Sanger sequencing identified no mutation in either parent, this mutation was determined to be de novo in origin. After obtaining molecular diagnosis, a retrospective clinical evaluation confirmed the clinical diagnosis of CFNS in this patient. Comprehensive molecular diagnosis using a next‐generation sequencer would be beneficial for early diagnosis of the patients with undiagnosed craniosynostosis.
Zonisamide: Review of Recent Clinical Evidence for Treatment of Epilepsy
Authors: Kwan Shang‐Yeong , Chuang Yao‐Chung , Huang Chin‐Wei , Chen Ta‐Cheng , Jou Shuo‐Bin , Dash Amitabh
Published: July 2015

Zonisamide is an orally administered antiepileptic drug that was first approved for clinical use in Japan in 1989. Since then, it has been licensed in Korea for a broad spectrum of epilepsies in adults and children, and in theUSAfor adjunctive therapy of adults with partial seizures, and in Europe for monotherapy of adults with newly diagnosed partial seizures and adjunctive therapy of adults and adolescents and children aged ≥6 years with partial seizures with or without secondary generalization. Zonisamide is a benzisoxazole derivative with a unique chemical structure, predictable dose‐dependent pharmacokinetics, and multiple complementary mechanisms of action. Treatment with zonisamide is well tolerated and is not known to be associated with clinically significant drug–drug interactions, including with oral contraceptives or other antiepileptic drugs. There have been >2 million patient‐years of experience with zonisamide for treatment of epilepsy, and this drug has International League Against Epilepsy level A evidence for efficacy/effectiveness as initial monotherapy for adults with partial‐onset seizures. This review presents the evidence for zonisamide across the spectrum of epilepsy, with emphasis on real‐world clinical practice and special populations of patients (children, elderly patients, and women of childbearing age) who are likely to be treated in daily clinical practice.
Autonomic Function Tests and MIBG in Parkinson's Disease: Correlation to Disease Duration and Motor Symptoms
Authors: Rocchi Camilla , Pierantozzi Mariangela , Galati Salvatore , Chiaravalloti Agostino , Pisani Valerio , Prosperetti Chiara , Lauretti Benedetta , Stampanoni Bassi Mario , Olivola Enrica , Schillaci Orazio , Stefani Alessandro
Published: July 2015

Aims

Disorders of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) have a variable degree of clinical relevance in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). Here, we assessed whether subclinical autonomic dysfunction, as evaluated by a complete battery of autonomic function tests (AFTs), correlates with PD progression.

Methods

A series of 27 consecutive patients with PD underwent extensive ANS investigations including the head‐up tilt test (HUTT), Valsalva maneuver, deep‐breathing test, and handgrip test (HG); further, they performed 123I‐meta‐iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scintigraphy.

Results

Seven of the 27 patients showed orthostatic hypotension (OH) at HUTT and pathological responses to the deep‐breathing and HG test and Valsalva maneuver. The majority of the remaining 20 patients with PD showed pathological responses to deep‐breathing (n = 13) and/or HG (n = 11). Only 3 of 27 suffered relevant OH. MIBG uptake of myocardium was decreased in 19 patients with PD (H/M ratio 1.3 ± 0.2). Prolonged clinical observation (>3 years), persistent response to levodopa, and MIBG repetition allowed us to exclude negative MIBG as attributable to atypical Parkinsonism. MIBG uptake did not correlate with OH and other AFTs. Both HG test response and MIBG did correlate with the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) motor score and disease duration. A positive correlation emerged between diastolic blood pressure (DBP) response to HG test and MIBG and with systolic blood pressure (SBP) response at tilt test.

Conclusions

Our investigation suggests that ANS impairment affects the majority of patients with PD, even those PD patients showing negative MIBG, irrespective of clinical neurovegetative symptoms. The strict correlation that has been revealed with disease progression supports the routine utilization of AFTs as a reliable and inexpensive tool for monitoring peripheral sympathetic dysfunction in PD and optimizing therapy.
Comparison of calcium alginate and carboxymethyl cellulose for nasal packing after endoscopic sinus surgery: a prospective, randomised, controlled single‐blinded trial
Authors: Park D.‐Y. , Chung H.J. , Sim N.S. , Jo K.H. , Kim D.H. , Kim C.‐H. , Yoon J.‐H.
Published: July 2015

Objectives

Calcium alginate is a biodegradable gel‐transforming agent widely used for nasal packing. It can reduce pain and improve comfort. However, few randomised controlled trials have compared the efficacy of calcium alginate nasal packing with that of other biodegradable gel‐transforming materials.

Design

Prospective, randomised, single‐blinded controlled study.

Setting

Yonsei University Severance Hospital, a tertiary academic medical centre.

Participants

Twenty‐seven patients (54 nostrils) with chronic rhinosinusitis who were scheduled for bilateral endoscopic sinus surgery were enrolled. After surgery, one nostril was packed with calcium alginate and the other with carboxymethyl cellulose. Only patients with an intersinus chronic rhinosinusitis severity score difference of ≤1 were included.

Main outcome measures

Visual analogue scale (VAS) scores for postoperative pain, discomfort from nasal discharge and pain during packing removal were analysed. Two independent rhinologists who were blinded to the assessments separately scored adhesions, oedema and infection by endoscopic digital photography at 1, 4 and 8 weeks postoperatively.

Results

There were no significant differences in VAS scores for postoperative pain, discomfort from nasal discharge or pain during packing removal between calcium alginate packings and carboxymethyl cellulose packings. Inter‐rater variability of adhesion, oedema and infection scores was acceptable. Adhesion severity and oedema scores at 4 weeks were significantly lower with calcium alginate packing than with carboxymethyl cellulose. Infection severity scores also tended to be lower with calcium alginate than with carboxymethyl cellulose, but the difference was not significant.

Conclusions

Calcium alginate nasal packing is associated with reduced severity of oedema and adhesions after endoscopic sinus surgery.
The EGR2 gene is involved in axonal Charcot−Marie−Tooth disease
Authors: Sevilla T. , Sivera R. , Martínez‐Rubio D. , Lupo V. , Chumillas M. J. , Calpena E. , Dopazo J. , Vílchez J. J. , Palau F. , Espinós C.
Published: July 2015

Background and purpose

A three‐generation family affected by axonal Charcot−Marie−Tooth disease (CMT) was investigated with the aim of discovering genetic defects and to further characterize the phenotype.

Methods

The clinical, nerve conduction studies and muscle magnetic resonance images of the patients were reviewed. A whole exome sequencing was performed and the changes were investigated by genetic studies, in silico analysis and luciferase reporter assays.

Results

A novel c.1226G>A change (p.R409Q) in the EGR2 gene was identified. Patients presented with a typical, late‐onset axonal CMT phenotype with variable severity that was confirmed in the ancillary tests. The in silico studies showed that the residue R409 is an evolutionary conserved amino acid. The p.R409Q mutation, which is predicted as probably damaging, would alter the conformation of the protein slightly and would cause a decrease of gene expression.

Conclusions

This is the first report of an EGR2 mutation presenting as an axonal CMT phenotype with variable severity. This study broadens the phenotype of the EGR2‐related neuropathies and suggests that the genetic testing of patients suffering from axonal CMT should include the EGR2 gene.
Parentification, Stress, and Problem Behavior of Adolescents who have a Parent with Mental Health Problems
Authors: Van Loon Linda M. A. , Van de Ven Monique O. M. , Van Doesum Karin T. M. , Hosman Clemens M. H. , Witteman Cilia L. M.
Published: July 2015

When adolescents live with a parent with mental illness, they often partly take over the parental role. Little is known about the consequences of this so‐called parentification on the adolescents' internalizing and externalizing problems. This survey study examined this effect cross‐sectionally and longitudinally in a sample of 118 adolescents living with a parent suffering from mental health problems. In addition, the study examined a possible indirect effect via perceived stress. Path analyses were used to examine the direct associations between parentification and problem behavior as well as the indirect relations via perceived stress. The results showed that parentification was associated with both internalizing and externalizing problems cross‐sectionally, but it predicted only internalizing problems 1 year later. An indirect effect of parentification on adolescent internalizing and externalizing problems via perceived stress was found, albeit only cross‐sectionally. These findings imply that parentification can be stressful for adolescents who live with a parent with mental health problems, and that a greater awareness of parentification is needed to prevent adolescents from developing internalizing problems.
The structural and mutational analyses of O‐ureido‐l‐serine synthase necessary for d‐cycloserine biosynthesis
Authors: Uda Narutoshi , Matoba Yasuyuki , Oda Kosuke , Kumagai Takanori , Sugiyama Masanori
Published: July 2015

We have recently been successful in cloning a gene cluster necessary for the biosynthesis of d‐cycloserine (d‐CS) from d‐CS‐producing Streptomyces lavendulae ATCC11924. Although dcsD, one of the ORFs located on the gene cluster, encodes a protein homologous to O‐acetylserine sulfhydrylase that synthesizes l‐cysteine using O‐acetyl‐l‐serine together with sulfide, it functions to form O‐ureido‐l‐serine as a d‐CS biosynthetic intermediate, using O‐acetyl‐l‐serine together with hydroxyurea (HU). In the present study, using crystallographic and mutational studies, three amino acid residues in DcsD that are important for the substrate preference toward HU were determined. We showed that two of the three residues are important for the binding of HU into the substrate‐binding pocket. The other residue contributes to the formation of a loose hydrogen‐bond network during the catalytic reaction. Information regarding the amino acid residues will be very useful in the design of a new catalyst for synthesizing the β‐substituted‐l‐alanine derivatives.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structure factors of wild‐type DcsD and l‐OUS‐bound K43A mutant of DcsD have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank under accession codes 3X43 and 3X44, respectively.
Iron Deficiency and IL1β Polymorphisms in Helicobacter pylori‐infected Children
Authors: Serrano Carolina A. , Villagrán Andrea , Toledo Héctor , Crabtree Jean E. , Harris Paul R.
Published: July 2015

Background

Helicobacter pylori infection has been associated with an imbalance of iron homeostasis. IL‐1β has been related with iron absorption disturbances through a variety of mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of polymorphic variants for IL‐1β cluster and gastric IL1β mRNA expression in H. pylori‐infected children and their relationship with hypochlorhydria and iron deficiency (ID).

Patients and Methods

Prospective study of 123 symptomatic children. At endoscopy, antral biopsies were taken for urease test, pathology and culture and blood for analysis of ferritin, transferrin, serum iron, and total iron‐binding capacity. Polymorphisms in the IL‐1β cluster (positions −511, −31, +3954, ILRN) were determined by PCR‐RFLP. Gastric mucosal expression of IL‐1β mRNA was determined by RT‐PCR.

Results

After exclusions, of 105 patients, 33 (31.4%) were H. pylori positive. Nine (8.6%) children were classified as iron deficient (ID). Helicobacter pylori positivity was associated with ID (OR: 5.1; 95% CI: 1.2–21.9) (p = .04). No significant differences were found in allele frequency for IL1β gene cluster polymorphisms between infected and uninfected children. Helicobacter pylori‐infected children with ID had significantly increased gastric IL1β mRNA in comparison with infected children without ID. In addition, a significant positive correlation was observed between mucosal IL‐1β mRNA and fasting gastric juice pH. Gastric pH values were significantly increased in H. pylori‐infected patients with ID compared to uninfected children.

Conclusions

The established association between H. pylori infection and ID in children may be mediated by increased gastric mucosal IL‐1β.
Optimisation of fermentation conditions for probiotication of sorghum wort by Lactobacillus acidophilus LA5
Authors: Hassani Ahmed , Zarnkow Martin , Becker Thomas
Published: July 2015

Probiotics are considered as significant segments of functional foods. The response surface methodology was used to optimise the fermentation process conditions for the development of a probiotic sorghum wort beverage fermented with Lb. acidophilus LA5. The central composite design was applied with three fermentation parameters such as temperature, inoculation dosage and initial pH. Each parameter was varied at three levels. All parameters had single or interaction significant effects (P < 0.05) on the response variables. The models were highly significant with very low P ‐values. The optimum fermentation conditions were as follows: temperature 33 °C, inoculation dosage 0.8 OD600 and pH 5.3. Under these conditions, a probiotic beverage with viable bacterial cell concentration of 8.0 log10 cfu mL−1, final pH 3.7, lactic acid 3.2 g L−1 and total sugar 52.7 g L−1 can be produced. The validation experiments showed a good agreement between the experimental and predicted values. The results showed that sorghum wort is a suitable medium to produce probiotic beverages fermented with Lb. acidophilus LA5.
Effect of chlorophyll removal and particle size upon the nutritional and technological properties of powdered by‐products from artichoke (Cynara scolymus, L.) industrial canning
Authors: Ruiz‐Cano Domingo , Frutos María José , Hernández‐Herrero José Antonio , Pérez‐Llamas Francisca , Zamora Salvador
Published: July 2015

In this study, the effect of the particle‐size fractionation (Ø < 0.212 mm and 0.212 mm < Ø < 0.991 mm) and chlorophyll extraction on the nutritional and technological properties of the powdered artichoke ingredient was evaluated. The contents of minerals, protein, fat, carbohydrates and dietary fibre together with the content in bioactive compounds such as inulin and phenolics were determined. Other properties such as water‐ and oil‐holding capacities, water activity and antioxidant capacity were measured. The ingredient with chlorophyll and the lowest particle size presented the highest phenolic content and antioxidant capacity (8.4 mg of vitamin C equivalents per 100 g of dry matter) and water‐ and oil‐holding capacities. The removal of chlorophyll increased the oil‐holding capacity (from 59.7% to 94.6%), which was much higher than in the coarse ingredient (34%), but has a deleterious effect reducing the antioxidant capacity and the inulin content. The ingredients also showed high dietary fibre (22.5–33%), inulin (9–16%) and mineral (7.5–7.8%) contents. Although the ingredient with chlorophyll and smaller particle size had the higher antioxidant capacity, the removal of chlorophyll improved the technological properties to be used as food ingredient without affecting significantly to the nutritional value.
Geographical discrimination of honeys through antioxidant capacity, mineral content and colour
Authors: Patrignani Mariela , Bernardelli Cecilia , Conforti Paula A. , Malacalza Néstor H. , Yamul Diego K. , Donati Edgardo , Lupano Cecilia E.
Published: July 2015

The assessment of geographical origin of honey is economically important for producers and consumers as every region may present particular quality characteristics. In this study, honeys from the seven different regions of Buenos Aires province (Argentina) were characterised by their antioxidant capacity (DPPH, FRAP), total phenolic content (TPC), mineral composition, colour and ash. Honeys showed significant differences among their antioxidant capacity (DPPH), ash, colour and mineral content (P ≤ 0.05). Besides, a good antioxidant activity and low amounts of Cu and Zn (<1.0–1.5 and 0.7–1.8 mg kg−1, respectively) were found in the samples. Significant Pearson's correlations (P ≤ 0.05) among the different parameters were found. Moreover, the linear discriminant analysis allowed the classification of honeys in their original groups with a prediction success of 98%. The present results suggest that honeys could be correctly classified by their geographical origin through their TPC, colour, ash and mineral concentrations.
Can labour provisions work beyond the border? Evaluating the effects of EU free trade agreements
Authors: CAMPLING Liam , HARRISON James , RICHARDSON Ben , SMITH Adrian
Published: July 2015

The European Union (EU) has concluded close to 50 bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs), with around 10 more under negotiation. EU FTAs now include “trade and sustainable development” chapters, which contain labour provisions based on a “promotional” rather than “conditional” approach. In the context of the debate on the purpose and efficacy of the trade–labour linkage, the authors examine the possibilities and limitations of these provisions, drawing attention to the lack of research on their effect “on the ground”. To bridge this gap, they propose a new research agenda for evaluating the effects of labour provisions in EU FTAs.
Redesigning enforcement in private labour regulation: Will it work?
Authors: MARX Axel , WOUTERS Jan
Published: July 2015

Private labour regulation has emerged as an international governance tool for the enforcement of international labour standards. Yet, doubts have recently been expressed concerning the potential of such private systems for effectively improving labour conditions in supply chains. Their typical top‐down auditing approach to enforcing standards is considered inappropriate when it comes to international labour standards. This article assesses whether the design of these systems can be strengthened in order to ensure better compliance. In particular, the authors draw attention to mechanisms which empower stakeholders, such as complaint mechanisms, whose potential and constraints are discussed.
Ambulatory Blood Pressures in Hypertensive Patients Treated With One Antihypertensive Agent: Differences Among Drug Classes and Among Drugs Belonging to the Same Class
Authors: de la Sierra Alejandro , Gorostidi Manuel , Banegas José R. , Segura Julián , Vinyoles Ernest , de la Cruz Juan J. , Ruilope Luis M.
Published: July 2015

The authors investigated the differences in office and ambulatory blood pressure (BP) among major antihypertensive drug classes and among frequently used drugs in each class in 22,617 patients treated with monotherapy from the Spanish ABPM Registry. Using thiazides as the reference group, patients treated with calcium channel blockers have significantly (P<.01) elevated ambulatory BP and less ambulatory control after adjusting for confounders. Inside each class, no significant differences were observed among thiazides or angiotensin receptor blockers. Atenolol and bisoprolol among β‐blockers, amlodipine among calcium channel blockers, and lisinopril and enalapril among angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors exhibited lower ambulatory BP and better control than other agents. Differences exist among antihypertensive drug classes and among different compounds in each class with respect to ambulatory BP control. This can help physicians choose among drug classes and among compounds in each class if BP reduction is the main objective of treatment.
Adherence to the gluten‐free diet can achieve the therapeutic goals in almost all patients with coeliac disease: A 5‐year longitudinal study from diagnosis
Authors: Newnham Evan D , Shepherd Susan J , Strauss Boyd J , Hosking Patrick , Gibson Peter R
Published: July 2015

Background

Key aims of treatment of coeliac disease are to heal the intestinal mucosa and correct nutritional abnormalities.

Aim

We aim to determine prospectively the degree of success and time course of achieving those goals with a gluten‐free diet.

Methods

Ninety‐nine patients were enrolled at diagnosis and taught the diet. The first 52 were reassessed at 1 year and 46 at 5 years, 25 being assessed at the three time points regarding dietary compliance (dietitian‐assessed), coeliac serology, bone mineral density and body composition analysis by dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry, and intestinal histology.

Results

Mean age (range) was 40 (18–71) years and 48 (76%) were female. Dietary compliance was very good to excellent in all but one. Tissue transglutaminase IgA was persistently elevated in 44% at 1 year and 30% at 5 years and were poorly predictive of mucosal disease. Rates of mucosal remission (Marsh 0) and response (Marsh 0/1) were 37% and 54%, and 50% and 85% at 1 and 5 years, respectively. Fat mass increased significantly over the first year in those with normal/reduced body mass index. Lean body mass indices more slowly improved irrespective of status at diagnosis with significant improvement at 5 years. Bone mass increased only in those with osteopenia or osteoporosis, mostly in year 1.

Conclusion

Dietary compliance is associated with a high chance of healing the intestinal lesion and correction of specific body compositional abnormalities. The time course differed with body fat improving within 1 year, and correction of the mucosal lesion and improvement in lean mass and bone mass taking longer.
Apple Flavor: Linking Sensory Perception to Volatile Release and Textural Properties
Authors: Ting Valentina J.L. , Romano Andrea , Silcock Patrick , Bremer Phil J. , Corollaro Maria Laura , Soukoulis Christos , Cappellin Luca , Gasperi Flavia , Biasioli Franco
Published: July 2015

In apples, consumers predominantly use visual, auditory and texture cues as quality/preference indicators and struggle to describe complex olfactory sensations. This study investigated apple cultivar differentiation using analytical and sensory techniques with the goal of achieving more relevant instrumental characterization. Sensory flavor/odor data were compared with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) measured using proton transfer reaction time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (PTR‐ToF‐MS) and sensory texture data were compared with mechanical‐acoustic textural parameters obtained using a texture analyzer. Both techniques separated cultivars similarly. PTR‐ToF‐MS data separated cultivars into VOC families that correlated to specific sensory attributes (e.g., butanoate esters to lemon flavor/odor). Analytical and sensory firmness were positively correlated where the former differentiated crunchy from hard‐not crunchy cultivars. Sweet taste did not correlate to soluble solids content but was positively correlated to fruity esters which could indicate a taste‐aroma interaction. This study demonstrates the potential to predict sensory attributes of apples using analytical techniques.

Practical Application

The description of apple flavor is challenging for both trained panelists and consumers to describe due to the complexity of the multimodal stimulations that occur within the oral and ortho/retro nasal cavity during consumption that induce odor, taste, flavor and sound perception. Therefore, this study looks at objectively characterizing apple cultivars based solely on instrumental techniques that reflect attributes attained from a descriptive sensory analysis of the same cultivars. The current study found apple cultivars were separated into similar groups when sensory and instrumental texture, physicochemical and VOC data were compared. Specific analytical properties that correlated strongly to sensory attributes could be used as predictors of important sensory attributes that differentiated the samples. Hence, the use of these instrumental techniques to characterize apples could be an option to increase throughput.
An Automated Surveying and Marking System for Continuous Setting‐out of Tunnels
Authors: Gonzalez‐Jimenez J. , Arevalo V. , Galindo C. , Ruiz‐Sarmiento J.R.
Published: July 2015

Setting‐out is a crucial and frequently repeated process in construction and civil engineering. It is carried out by qualified operators who, making use of surveying stations, identify reference points to guide workers in their tasks. In this paper, we focus on the particular case of setting‐out road/train tunnels and propose a system that automatically performs the setting‐out operation of the tunnel section to be perforated. The presented system, called Tunnel Continuous Setout (TCS), integrates a scanning device that surveys the excavation front and a laser projector that continuously displays the actual tunnel section computed as the intersection between the surveyed terrain and the planned tunnel section. Thus, the topographer intervention is only required for the precise positioning of the TCS device at the beginning of each working stretch, which depends on the operational range of its components (limited to 25 meters in the current implementation). A prototype of the TCS system has been employed in a real construction site proving its benefits and advantages with respect to the traditional setting‐out techniques.
An entomological and seroepidemiological study of the vectorial‐transmission risk of Chagas disease in the coast of northern Chile
Authors: GONZÁLEZ C. R. , REYES C. , CANALS A. , PARRA A. , MUÑOZ X. , RODRÍGUEZ K.
Published: July 2015

Four species of triatomines are known from Chile: Triatoma infestans Klug, Mepraia spinolai Porter, M. gajardoi Frías, Henry & González, and M. parapatrica Frías (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), the last three are endemic. The geographical distribution of M. gajardoi includes the coastal areas in the north of Chile between 18° and 21°S, an area with both a resident workforce and summer‐season visitors. A study was developed to assess the risk of vectorial transmission of Chagas disease by M. gajardoi in hut settlements on the coast of the Tarapacá Region, in particular in Caleta San Marcos and Caleta Río Seco. The study comprised fingerstick sampling of 95 persons, venous samples from 29 domestic dogs and capture of 52 triatomines, from both fishing coves. The samples were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. The results show that, of the total number of persons studied, 100% were negative for Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas (Trypanosomatida: Trypanosomatidae) antibodies, 10.34% of canids were positive for the antibody and 5.8% of M. gajardoi were infected to the PCR technique. The presence of this species in areas close to human settlements constitutes a risk to human populations established on the coast of northern Chile.
Regulatory T cells in immune‐mediated renal disease
Authors: Ghali Joanna R , Wang Yuan Min , Holdsworth Stephen R , Kitching A Richard
Published: July 2015

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are CD4+ T cells that can suppress immune responses by effector T cells, B cells and innate immune cells. This review discusses the role that Tregs play in murine models of immune‐mediated renal diseases and acute kidney injury and in human autoimmune kidney disease (such as systemic lupus erythematosus, anti‐glomerular basement membrane disease, anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐associated vasculitis). Current research suggests that Tregs may be reduced in number and/or have impaired regulatory function in these diseases. Tregs possess several mechanisms by which they can limit renal and systemic inflammatory immune responses. Potential therapeutic applications involving Tregs include in vivo induction of Tregs or inducing Tregs from naïve CD4+ T cells or expanding natural Tregs ex vivo, to use as a cellular therapy. At present, the optimal method of generating a phenotypically stable pool of Tregs with long‐lasting suppressive effects is not established, but human studies in renal transplantation are underway exploring the therapeutic potential of Tregs as a cellular therapy, and if successful may have a role as a novel therapy in immune‐mediated renal diseases.
Mesenchymal stem cell treatment in hyperoxia‐induced lung injury in newborn rats
Authors: Gülaşı Selvi , Atıcı Aytuğ , Yılmaz Şakir Necat , Polat Ayşe , Yılmaz Mustafa , Laçin Melisa Türkoğlu , Örekici Gülhan , Çelik Yalçın
Published: July 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of tracheally delivered mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) on lung pathology in a hyperoxia‐induced lung injury (HILI) model in neonatal rats.

Methods

For the HILI model, rat pups were exposed to 85–95% oxygen during the first 10 days of life. Rats were divided into six groups: room‐air normoxia (n = 11); room air, sham (n = 11); hyperoxia exposed with normal saline as placebo (n = 9); hyperoxia exposed with culture medium of MSC (n = 10); hyperoxia exposed with medium remaining after harvesting of MSC (n = 8); and hyperoxia exposed with MSC (n = 17). Pathologic changes, number and diameter of alveoli, α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) expression and localization of MSC in the lungs were assessed.

Results

Number of alveoli increased and alveolar diameter decreased in the mesenchymal stem cell group so that there were no differences when compared with the normoxia group (P = 0.126 and P = 0.715, respectively). Expression of α‐SMA decreased significantly in the mesenchymal stem cell group compared with the placebo group (P < 0001). Green fluorescent protein‐positive cells were found in lung tissue from all rats given MSC. Some green fluorescent protein‐positive MSC also expressed surfactant protein‐C.

Conclusion

Mesenchymal stem cells became localized in damaged lung tissue, and recovery approximated the room air control.
Donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies in pediatric renal transplant recipients with creeping creatinine: Prevalence, histological correlations, and impact on patient and graft survival
Authors: Monteverde Marta Lidia , Chaparro Alicia , Goldberg Julio , Marcos Cintia Yanina , Padros Karim , Balbarrey Ziomara , Briones Liliana , Rush David
Published: July 2015

Donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies (DSA) causing CAMR are responsible for a high proportion of long‐term graft failures after RTX. We studied the prevalence of DSA in RTX children biopsied for creeping Cr, its relationship with NA, and patient and graft survival according to histopathology. Between 2008 and 2013, 92 children were biopsied at a median of 38 months post‐RTX. At biopsy, the prevalence of DSA was 49% and C4d 70%. NA rate was 45%, higher in adolescents (60%). Most frequent diagnoses were CAMR (72%) and interstitial fibrosis with tubular atrophy (IFTA) (28%). Forty‐five of 66 patients with CAMR (68%) had detectable DSA. Twenty‐one DSA‐negative patients with CAMR had histological damage (IFTA + C4d positivity). C4d was detected in 64 of 66 biopsies with CAMR. Recipients with IFTA alone had neither C4d, nor detectable DSA, and were adherent. Graft survival at five yr was 89% in patients with CAMR, 79% in those with CAMR + TCMR Banff I, 33% in those with CAMR + TCMR Banff II, and 96% in those with IFTA. ABMR and complement activation were frequent in children biopsied for creeping Cr. Recipients with DSA were more likely to be non‐adherent and have CAMR or CAMR + TCMR and worse graft survival.