bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of the spoilage bacterial microbiota in oyster gills during storage at different temperatures
Authors: Chen Huibin , Liu Zhiyu , Wang Meiying , Chen Shaojun , Chen Tuanwei
Published: May 2013

Background

The spoilage bacterial community in oyster gill was investigated during storage at 4, 10 and 20°C. Aerobic plate counts and pH values were determined. Total bacterial DNA was extracted from oyster gill and bulk cells of plate count media. The major bacterial species during fresh or different temperatures storage were determined by polymerase chain reaction–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR‐DGGE).

Results

The initial aerobic plate count in oyster gill reached 6.70 log CFU g−1. PCR‐DGGE fingerprinting analysis of the 16S rRNA gene V3 region revealed that most of the strains in fresh oyster gill belonged to the genera Lactococcus and Enterobacter. The major spoilage bacteria at a storage temperature of 20°C were Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides, an uncultured bacterium, Cytophaga fermentans, Lactococcus lactis, Pseudoalteromonas sp., Enterococcus mundtii, Clostridium difficile and an uncultured Fusobacteria; those at 10°C were Lactococcus spp., Lactobacillus curvatus, Weissella confusa and C. difficile; those at 4°C were Lactococcus, Weissella, Enterobacter and Aeromonas. The other minor species were L. curvatus, Pseudomonas sp. and E. mundtii. Lactococcus spp. was the most common main spoilage bacteria in oyster gill during chilled storage.

Conclusion

PCR‐DGGE revealed the complexity of the bacterial microbiota and the major bacteria species in oyster gill for fresh and storage. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Simultaneous measurement of lens accommodation and convergence in natural and artificial 3D vision
Authors: Shiomi Tomoki , Uemoto Keita , Kojima Takehito , Sano Shunta , Ishio Hiromu , Takada Hiroki , Omori Masako , Watanabe Tomoyuki , Miyao Masaru
Published: May 2013

Recent advances in 3D technology have been accompanied by increasing complaints of visual fatigue. The usual explanation for such fatigue is that accommodation and convergence are mismatched during stereoscopic vision.

The aim of this study was to measure fixation distances between lens accommodation and convergence in young subjects while they viewed real objects and 3D video clips. Measurements were made using an original instrument. The 3D video clips were presented to subjects using a liquid crystal shutter glass system. The results showed that when viewing real objects, the diopter values of subjects' accommodation and convergence were similar and changed periodically. This measurement method was thus considered to be appropriate for the measurement of stereoscopic vision. We also investigated lens accommodation and convergence when subjects viewed 3D video clips. Both accommodation and convergence were found to move along with the virtual position of 3D video clips. Therefore, there was little discrepancy between accommodation and convergence during the viewing of 3D images.
Intention to Revisit Traditional Folk Events: A Case Study of Qinhuai Lantern Festival, China
Authors: Shen Suyan
Published: May 2013

The present study aims at analyzing revisit intention of traditional folk events based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and a Consumer‐based Model of Authenticity. The survey data were collected by a questionnaire survey in Nanjing Qinhuai Lantern Festival 2012, China. Structural equation modeling was employed to test the proposed research model. The result shows that perceived behavioral control, motivation and perceived food authenticity of the event, but not attitude and perceived overall authenticity of the event, are valid predictor constructs for visitors' intention to revisit Qinhuai Lantern Festival. The findings have implications for the promotion of traditional events and festival tourism. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decreasing Incidence of Symptomatic Epstein-Barr Virus Disease and Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder in Pediatric Liver Transplant Recipients: Report of the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation Experience
Authors: Narkewicz Michael R. , Green Michael , Dunn Stephen , Millis Michael , McDiarmid Susan , Mazariegos George , Anand Ravinder , Yin Wanrong
Published: May 2013

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) causes significant morbidity and mortality in pediatric recipients of liver transplantation (LT). Objective: Describe the incidence of PTLD and symptomatic Epstein-Barr virus (SEBV) disease in a large multicenter cohort of children who underwent LT with a focus on the risk factors and changes in incidence over time. SEBV and PTLD were prospectively determined in 2283 subjects who had undergone LT for the first time with at least 1 year of follow-up in the Studies of Pediatric Liver Transplantation database. SEBV was defined with specific criteria, and PTLD required tissue confirmation. The incidence of SEBV and PTLD was determined with a Kaplan-Meier analysis. Univariate and multivariate modeling of risk factors was performed with standard methods. SEBV occurred in 199 patients; 174 (87.4%) were EBV–negative at LT. Seventy-five patients developed PTLD, and 64 (85.3%) of these patients were EBV-negative at LT. Among the 2048 patients with at least 2 years of follow-up, 8.3% developed SEBV by the second year after LT, and 2.8% developed PTLD. There were lower rates of SEBV (5.9% versus 11.3%, P < 0.001) and PTLD (1.7% versus 4.2%, P = 0.001) in 2002-2007 versus 1995-2001. In 2002-2007, tacrolimus and cyclosporine trough blood levels in the first year after LT were significantly lower, and fewer children were receiving steroids. Biliary atresia, and recipient EBV status were correlated. In a multivariate analysis, era of LT, recipient EBV status, and frequent rejection episodes were associated with SEBV and PTLD. The incidence of SEBV and PTLD is decreasing in pediatric LT recipients concomitantly with a reduction in immunosuppression. Younger recipients and those with multiple rejections remain at higher risk for SEBV and PTLD. Liver Transpl 19:730–740, 2013.. © 2013 AASLD.
Chronic Lithium Treatment Protects Against Liver Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Liu Anding , Fang Haoshu , Dahmen Uta , Dirsch Olaf
Published: May 2013

Lithium has long been widely used in the treatment of bipolar mood disorders. Recent studies have demonstrated that lithium is able to decrease ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in the brain, kidneys, and heart. Because lithium may act on a number of stress and survival pathways, it is of great interest to explore this compound also in the setting of liver I/R injury. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of lithium in a model of liver I/R injury in rats. Chronic treatment with lithium (2 mmol/kg for 3 days before ischemia) decreased I/R injury, whereas acute treatment with a single dose of lithium (2 mmol/kg 1 hour before ischemia) did not confer any protection in a partial hepatic I/R model. Furthermore, rats subjected to chronic lithium treatment had a significantly better survival rate (60%) than saline-treated rats (27%) in a total hepatic I/R survival model. Chronic lithium treatment protected against liver I/R injury, as indicated by lower serum aminotransferase levels, fewer I/R-associated histopathological changes, lower hepatic inflammatory cytokine levels, less neutrophil infiltration, and lower hepatic high-mobility group box expression and serum levels. The mechanism of action of lithium appears to involve its ability to inhibit glycogen synthase kinase 3β activation, modulate mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, inhibit hepatic apoptosis, and induce autophagy. On the basis of these data, we conclude that lithium treatment may be a simple and applicable preconditioning intervention for protecting against liver I/R injury. Liver Transpl 19:762–772, 2013.. © 2013 AASLD.
Deceased Donor Liver Transplantation in Infants and Small Children: Are Partial Grafts Riskier Than Whole Organs?
Authors: Cauley Ryan P. , Vakili Khashayar , Potanos Kristina , Fullington Nora , Graham Dionne A. , Finkelstein Jonathan A. , Kim Heung Bae
Published: May 2013

Infants have the highest wait-list mortality of all liver transplant candidates. Although previous studies have demonstrated that young children may be at increased risk when they receive partial grafts from adult and adolescent deceased donors (DDs), with few size-matched organs available, these grafts have increasingly been used to expand the pediatric donor pool. We aimed to determine the current adjusted risks of graft failure and mortality in young pediatric recipients of partial DD livers and to determine whether these risks have changed over time. We analyzed 2683 first-time recipients of DD livers alone under the age of 24 months in the United Network for Organ Sharing database (1995-2010), which included 1118 partial DD livers and 1565 whole DD organs. Transplant factors associated with graft loss in bivariate analyses (P < 0.1) were included in multivariate proportional hazards models of graft and patient survival. Interaction analysis was used to examine risks over time (1995-2000, 2001-2005, and 2006-2010). Although there were significant differences in crude graft survival by the graft type in 1995-2000 (P < 0.001), graft survival rates with partial and whole grafts were comparable in 2001-2005 (P = 0.43) and 2006-2010 (P = 0.36). Furthermore, although the adjusted hazards for partial graft failure and mortality were 1.40 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.05-1.89] and 1.41 (95% CI = 0.95-2.09), respectively, in 1995-2000, the adjusted risks of graft failure and mortality were comparable for partial and whole organs in 2006-2010 [hazard ratio (HR) for graft failure = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.56-1.18; HR for mortality = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.66-1.71]. In conclusion, partial DD liver transplantation has become less risky over time and now has outcomes comparable to those of whole liver transplantation for infants and young children. This study supports the use of partial DD liver grafts in young children in an attempt to significantly increase the pediatric organ pool. Liver Transpl 19:721–729, 2013.. © 2013 AASLD.
Intraoperative hypercoagulability during liver transplantation as demonstrated by thromboelastography
Authors: Krzanicki Dominik , Sugavanam Anita , Mallett Susan
Published: May 2013

Thrombotic complications are more common in liver disease than might be expected because of the coagulopathy described by conventional coagulation tests. Some of these complications may be life-threatening. The phenomenon of hypercoagulation is associated with complications in many populations, but the incidence in liver transplant recipients is unclear. We performed a retrospective database review of intraoperative thromboelastography (TEG) for 124 liver transplant recipients. We assessed the prevalence of hypercoagulation in this group and investigated the relative frequency of both shortened TEG reaction times (R times) and increased net clot strength (G) values. These findings were correlated with thrombotic complications. At the baseline, the prevalence of high G values was 15.53% on native TEG, and the prevalence of shortened R times was 6.80% on native-heparinase TEG. Patients with cholestatic pathologies had particularly high rates of hypercoagulation (42.9% with primary biliary cirrhosis and 85.7% with primary sclerosing cholangitis), but hypercoagulation was also common in patients with fulminant hepatic failure (50%) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (37.5%). There was a poor correlation between the TEG R time and the international normalized (INR), with 37.7% of TEG analyses demonstrating a short R time with an INR > 2. Six of the patients developed early hepatic artery thrombosis (5%); 3 of these patients had TEG evidence of high G values (P = 0.25), and 4 had short R times (not significant). In conclusion, intraoperative TEG evidence of high G values and short R times is relatively common in liver transplantation. It is unclear what bearing this condition has on thrombotic complications. Conventional coagulation tests have no ability to diagnose this condition. It is conceivable that such patients may come to harm if hypercoagulability is unrecognized and, therefore, inappropriately managed.
Multicenter experience using telaprevir or boceprevir with peginterferon and ribavirin to treat hepatitis C genotype 1 after liver transplantation
Authors: Pungpapong Surakit , Aqel Bashar A. , Koning Ludi , Murphy Jennifer L. , Henry Tanisha M. , Ryland Kristen L. , Yataco Maria L. , Satyanarayana Raj , Rosser Barry G. , Vargas Hugo E. , Charlton Michael R. , Keaveny Andrew P.
Published: May 2013

The safety, efficacy, and effect on immunosuppression levels of telaprevir (TVR) or boceprevir (BOC) in combination with peginterferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin (RBV) in recipients of liver transplantation (LT) with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 have not been defined. We report our 3 centers' preliminary experiences with administering triple antiviral treatment protocols containing PEG-IFN, RBV, and TVR or BOC. Patients with biopsy-proven HCV recurrence (METAVIR grade ≥ 3 and/or stage ≥ 2) received TVR with PEG-IFN/RBV for 12 weeks and then PEG-IFN/RBV for 36 weeks or BOC with PEG-IFN/RBV for 44 weeks after 4 weeks of lead-in PEG-IFN/RBV. Maintenance immunosuppression was changed to cyclosporine whenever possible, and the levels were followed closely. PEG-IFN/RBV dose adjustments were based on patients' tolerance. Sixty patients started triple antiviral treatment, and they were followed for up to 66 weeks (mean = 35 weeks); all were followed at least 12 weeks. Thirty of the 35 patients treated with TVR (86%) achieved undetectable HCV RNA levels after an average of 6 weeks, whereas 12 patients (48%) in the BOC-treated group achieved undetectable HCV RNA levels after a mean of 11 weeks. According to an intention-to-treat analysis, 14 of 21 TVR-treated patients (67%) and 10 of 22 patients who received BOC (45%) achieved undetectable HCV RNA levels at week 24 without viral breakthrough at the last follow-up. Cytopenias complicated both regimens; all patients required dose reductions of PEG-IFN and/or RBV or the administration of hematological growth factors. One death occurred in each group on triple antiviral treatment. In conclusion, TVR or BOC combined with PEG-IFN/RBV achieved on-treatment virological response rates of approximately 50% to 60% in patients with recurrent HCV after LT, but significant side effects were common. Liver Transpl 19:690–700, 2013. © 2013 AASLD.
Early use of renal-sparing agents in liver transplantation: A closer look
Authors: Trotter James F. , Grafals Monica , Alsina Angel E.
Published: May 2013

Renal dysfunction is a critical issue for liver transplant candidates and recipients. Acute nephrotoxicity and chronic nephrotoxicity, however, are the compromises for the potent immunosuppression provided by calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs). To maintain the graft and patient survival afforded by CNIs while minimizing renal dysfunction in liver transplant patients, the reduction, delay, or elimination of CNIs in immunosuppression regimens is being implemented more frequently by clinicians. The void left by standard-dose CNIs is being filled by nonnephrotoxic immunosuppressants such as mycophenolates and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors. The results of studies of renal-sparing regimens in liver transplant recipients have been inconsistent, and this may be explained upon a closer examination of several study-related factors, including the study design and the duration of follow-up.
Respiratory risk score for the prediction of 3-month mortality and prolonged ventilation after liver transplantation
Authors: Kleine Moritz , Vondran Florian W. R. , Johanning Kai , Timrott Kai , Bektas Hüseyin , Lehner Frank , Klempnauer Juergen , Schrem Harald
Published: May 2013

Survival of critically ill patients is significantly affected by prolonged ventilation. The goal of this study was the development of a respiratory risk score (RRS) for the prediction of 3-month mortality and prolonged ventilation after liver transplantation (LT). Two hundred fifty-four consecutive LT patients from a single center were retrospectively randomized into a training group for model design and a validation group. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to test sensitivity and specificity. The accuracy of the predictions was assessed with the Brier score, and the model calibration was assessed with the Hosmer-Lemeshow test. Cutoff values were determined with the best Youden index. The RRS was calculated in the first 24 hours as follows: (laboratory Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score > 30 = 2.36 points) + (fresh frozen plasma > 13.5 U = 2.70 points) + (partial pressure of arterial oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen ratio < 200 mm Hg = 2.23 points) + (packed red blood cells > 10.5 U = 3.50 points) + (preoperative mechanical ventilation = 3.87 points) + (preoperative dialysis = 2.83 points) + (donor steatosis hepatis > 40% = 2.95 points). The RSS demonstrated high predictive accuracy, good model calibration, and c statistics > 0.7 in the training and validation groups. The RSS was able to predict 3-month mortality [cutoff = 6.64, area under the (ROC) curve (AUROC) = 0.794] and prolonged ventilation (cutoff = 3.69, AUROC = 0.798) with sensitivities of 69% and 81%, specificities of 83% and 73%, and overall model correctness of 76% and 77%, respectively. In conclusion, this study provides the first prognostic model for the prediction of 3-month mortality and prolonged ventilation after LT with high sensitivity and specificity and good model accuracy. The application of the RRS to an external cohort would be desirable for its further validation and introduction as a clinical tool for intensive care resource planning and prognostic decision making.
Selection and outcomes of living donors with a remnant volume less than 30% after right hepatectomy
Authors: Kim Seong Hoon , Kim Young Kyu , Lee Seung Duk , Park Sang-Jae
Published: May 2013

The evidence for defining a safe minimal remnant volume after living donor hepatectomy is insufficient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of living donors with a remnant/total volume ratio (RTVR) < 30% after right hepatectomy according to the following selection criteria: the preservation of the middle hepatic vein (MHV), an age < 50 years, and no or mild fatty changes in healthy adults. All living donors who underwent right hepatectomy preserving the MHV at our institution between January 2005 and September 2011 were divided into 2 groups: group A with an RTVR < 30% and group B with an RTVR ≥ 30%. Perioperative data, complications by the Clavien classification, and outcomes with at least 15.1 months' follow-up were compared. Twenty-eight donors were enrolled in group A, and 260 were enrolled in group B. The estimated liver volume was strongly correlated with the actual graft weight (R
2 = 0.608, P < 0.001). The calculated donation liver volume and the RTVR were significantly different between the 2 groups (P = 0.03 and P < 0.001, respectively). The peak postoperative aspartate aminotransferase levels, alanine aminotransferase levels, and international normalized ratios did not differ between the 2 groups. The peak total bilirubin level was higher for group A versus group B (P = 0.04). The hospital stay was longer for group A versus group B (P < 0.001). All donors recovered completely, and there were no significant differences in overall complications between the 2 groups. In conclusion, right hepatectomy preserving the MHV with an RTVR < 30% can be safely indicated for carefully selected living donors less than 50 years old with no or mild fatty changes.
Acute-on-chronic liver failure: Excellent outcomes after liver transplantation but high mortality on the wait list
Authors: Finkenstedt Armin , Nachbaur Karin , Zoller Heinz , Joannidis Michael , Pratschke Johann , Graziadei Ivo W. , Vogel Wolfgang
Published: May 2013

Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by high short-term mortality. Liver transplantation (LT) is a potential therapy for patients who do not improve with supportive measures, but the efficacy of LT has not been shown. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of LT and to determine the postoperative outcomes of patients with ACLF. All patients referred to our liver unit between 2002 and 2010 were registered in a database. The diagnosis of ACLF was made in accordance with the Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver consensus. The post-LT outcomes were compared with the outcomes of a cohort of patients with chronic liver disease who underwent transplantation for other indications during the same period. One hundred forty four of 238 patients fulfilled the ACLF criteria. In an intention-to-treat analysis, the median transplant-free survival time was 48 days. Multiorgan failure was the most common cause of death. Ninety-four patients (65%) were evaluated for LT, 71 patients (49%) were listed, and 33 patients (23%) finally underwent deceased donor LT; this resulted in a wait-list mortality rate of 54%. Patients who developed infectious complications (particularly pneumonia and/or sepsis) and patients who received renal replacement therapy or mechanical ventilation were less likely to undergo LT. The 1- and 5-year survival rates of 87% and 82% were comparable to the rates for non-ACLF patients. In conclusion, this study shows that LT remains the only therapeutic option for the vast majority of patients with ACLF. However, LT was feasible in less than one fourth of the patients with a 5-year survival rate greater than 80%.
Randomized, multicenter trial comparing tacrolimus plus mycophenolate mofetil to tacrolimus plus steroids in hepatitis C virus–positive recipients of living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Takada Yasutsugu , Kaido Toshimi , Asonuma Katsuhiro , Sakurai Hiroyuki , Kubo Shoji , Kiuchi Tetsuya , Inomata Yukihiro , Isaji Shuji , Tsumura Hayami , Teramukai Satoshi , Matsubara Yoshihiro , Sakabayashi Satomi , Uemoto Shinji
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this prospective, randomized, multicenter trial was to evaluate the effects of a steroid-avoiding immunosuppression protocol on hepatitis C virus (HCV)–positive recipients of living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). Seventy-five HCV-positive LDLT recipients were included in this study, and they were randomized to receive tacrolimus (TAC) plus a corticosteroid (ST; n = 35) or TAC plus mycophenolate mofetil (MMF; n = 40). Biopsy-proven acute rejection (BPAR) was treated with steroid pulse therapy in both groups. Protocol biopsy was performed 3, 6, and 12 months after LDLT and annually thereafter. Histological recurrence of HCV (fibrosis stage ≥ F1 according to the METAVIR score), BPAR resistant to 2 sets of steroid pulse therapy, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence, retransplantation, and patient death were defined as events, and the primary endpoint was event-free survival. The median follow-up was 55 months. The event-free survival rates at 1, 3, and 5 years were 38.2%, 11.8%, and 5.9%, respectively, for the ST group and 25.0%, 17.5%, and 14.6%, respectively, for the MMF group (P = 0.45). The overall 5-year patient survival rates were similar for the ST group (82.7%) and the MMF group (81.0%, P = 0.28). Steroid-resistant BPAR occurred in only 1 patient from the MMF group. HCC recurrence occurred for 1 patient from the ST group and 2 patients from the MMF group. HCV recurrence rates with a fibrosis stage ≥ F1 1 and 3 years after LDLT were 59.4% and 85.9%, respectively, for the ST group and 74.2% and 81.9%, respectively, for the MMF group (P = 0.57). In conclusion, our steroid-avoidance regimen had no apparent impact on LDLT outcomes for HCV-positive recipients.
Influence of Spacer Length on the Cellular Uptake of Polymeric Nanoparticles
Authors: Thielbeer Frank , Johansson Emma M. V. , Chankeshwara Sunay V. , Bradley Mark
Published: May 2013

Nanotechnology is finding ever increasing application in the life science arena where nanoparticles can be used to deliver cargoes in cells. However, a clear understanding of the relationship between the chemical properties of the particle and its uptake efficiency is lacking. Herein, the effects on particle cellular uptake following modification with a variety of spacers, all bearing a positive charge, but differing in length, and the influence on formation of the protein corona are investigated. Although no significant differences in the composition of the protein corona are detected, the spacer length influences the cellular uptake of the nanoparticles. These findings will allow the target‐orientated functionalisation of particles to increase the specificity of cellular uptake.

magnified image
In Situ Aggregates of Enantiomeric Poly(styrene)‐block‐Poly(lactide) Diblock Copolymers via Stereocomplexation in a Non‐selective Solvent
Authors: Hou Xiaodong , Li Qiaobo , Cao Amin
Published: May 2013

A comprehensive investigation of in situ aggregation of structurally well‐defined enantiomeric poly(styrene)‐block‐poly(lactide) (PS‐b‐PLLA and PS‐b‐PDLA) in a non‐selective solvent, tetrahydrofuran (THF), is presented. The isolated aggregates are found to form poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA)/poly(D‐lactide) (PDLA) racemic crystals by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD), and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The kinetic study reveals that the growth rate of the aggregates depends on the molecular weight of the enantiomeric PLA blocks, as well as the preparation conditions. The proposed mechanism demonstrates a new PS (shell)–PLA (core) structural hierarchy solely driven by stereocomplexation between enantiomeric PLLA and PDLA blocks.

magnified image
Molecular diagnosis of dystrophinopathies using a multi‐technique analysis algorithm
Authors: Luce Leonela N. , Ottaviani Daniela , Ferrer Marcela , Szijan Irene , Cotignola Javier , Giliberto Florencia
Published: May 2013

Introduction: Dystrophinopathies are X‐linked recessive neuromuscular diseases caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. In this study we aimed to detect mutations within the dystrophin gene in DMD patients, to determine the carrier status of women, and to perform a prenatal diagnosis. Methods: We analyzed 17 individuals from 2 unrelated families with a history of DMD. We used multiplex PCR, multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA), and short tandem‐repeat (STR) segregation analysis to accurately detect and characterize the mutations and to identify the at‐risk haplotype. Results: The selected methodology allowed for characterization of 2 single‐exon out‐of‐frame deletions in affected patients. Nine of 13 women and a fetus were excluded from being carriers. Three recombination events were found and suggested that germline mosaicism had occurred in both families. Conclusions: This methodology proved to be efficient for characterizing the disease‐causing mutation in affected individuals and for assessing the carrier status in healthy relatives. These findings helped inform precise genetic counseling and contributed to characterization of the disease in the Argentine population. Muscle Nerve 49: 249–256, 2014
Effect of antibiotic treatment on intestinal microbial and enzymatic development in postnatally overfed obese rats
Authors: Mozeš Štefan , Šefcíková Zuzana , Bujnáková Dobroslava , Racek Lubomír
Published: May 2013

Objective

To investigate the effect of the microbiota‐induced changes and early overfeeding after amoxicillin administration (a) in suckling pups via their dams up to 15 days of lactation and (b) in weaned pups on intestinal microbial/functional adaptability and obesity development in male Sprague‐Dawley rats.

Design and Methods

Postnatal nutrition was elicited by adjusting the number of pups in the nest to 4 (small litters [SLs]) and 10 (normal litters [NLs]), while from days 21 to 40, both groups were fed with a standard diet. The numbers of Bacteroides/Prevotella (BAC) and Lactobacillus/Enterococcus (LAB) in the jejunum and colon were determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization technique, and jejunal alkaline phosphatase (AP), α‐glucosidase and aminopeptidase activity was assayed histochemically.

Results

On day 40, the SL in comparison with NL animals displayed excess weight/fat gain accompanied by higher LAB and lower numbers of BAC, and with permanently higher AP activity. Moreover, these acquired changes continued in SL vs. NL rats and were not influenced by antibiotic treatment, which induced significant decrease in the quantity of LAB and BAC.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the role of early life overfeeding upon the gut microbial/functional ontogeny and allow to distinguish their potential involvement in later risk of obesity.
Abdominal visceral fat measurement using dual‐energy X‐ray: Association with cardiometabolic risk factors
Authors: Rothney Megan P. , Catapano Alberico L. , Xia Jin , Wacker Wynn K. , Tidone Cristina , Grigore Liliana , Xia Yi , Ergun David L.
Published: May 2013

Objective

To examine the association between cardiometabolic risk factors and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) measurements using a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) based approach.

Design and Methods

An analysis of cross‐sectional relationships between DXA VAT measured using CoreScan (GE Healthcare) and cardiometabolic indicators was conducted on a sample of 939 subjects (541 females and 398 males; average age, 56 years; average BMI, 26 kg/m2) who had previously undergone a total body DXA scan as well as measurements of key cardiometabolic risk factors.

Results

Sex‐specific, age‐adjusted multivariable regression analysis showed that for both men and women, DXA VAT was significantly associated with increased odds of hypertension, impaired fasting glucose, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes (P < 0.001). After additional model adjustment for BMI and waist circumference, the odds ratio (per SD change in VAT) for type 2 diabetes was 2.07 for women and 2.25 for men. Similarly, the odds ratio for metabolic syndrome for women was 3.46 and for men was 1.75.

Conclusions

VAT measured using DXA showed a significant association with cardiometabolic risk factors and disease. These relationships persist after statistical adjustment for age, BMI, and waist circumference. DXA VAT may provide a new accessible option for quantifying VAT‐related cardiometabolic risk.
Acquired liver fat is a key determinant of serum lipid alterations in healthy monozygotic twins
Authors: Kaye S.M. , Maranghi M. , Bogl L.H. , Kaprio J. , Hakkarainen A. , Lundbom J. , Lundbom N. , Rissanen A. , Taskinen M.‐R. , Pietiläinen K.H.
Published: May 2013

Objective: The effects of acquired obesity on lipid profile and lipoprotein composition in rare BMI‐discordant monozygotic (MZ) twin pairs were studied.

Design and Methods: Abdominal fat distribution, liver fat (magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy), fasting serum lipid profile (ultracentrifugation, gradient gel‐electrophoresis, and colorimetric enzymatic methods), and lifestyle factors (questionnaires and diaries) were assessed in 15 BMI‐discordant (within‐pair difference [Δ] in BMI >3 kg/m2) and nin concordant (ΔBMI <3 kg/m2) MZ twin pairs, identified from two nationwide cohorts of Finnish twins.

Results: Despite a strong similarity of MZ twins in lipid parameters (intra‐class correlations 0.42‐0.90, P < 0.05), concentrations of apolipoprotein B (ApoB), intermediate‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein 3a% (HDL3a%), and HDL3c% were higher (P < 0.05) and those of HDL cholesterol, HDL2‐C, and HDL2b% were lower (P < 0.01) in the heavier co‐twins of BMI‐discordant pairs. The composition of lipoprotein particles was similar in the co‐twins. When BMI‐discordant pairs were further divided into liver fat‐discordant and concordant (based on median for Δliver fat, 2.6%), the adverse lipid profile was only seen in those heavy co‐twins who also had high liver fat. Conversely, BMI‐discordant pairs concordant for liver fat did not differ significantly in lipid parameters. In multivariate analyses controlling for Δsubcutaneous, Δintra‐abdominal fat, sex, Δsmoking and Δphysical activity, Δliver fat was the only independent variable explaining the variation in ΔApoB, Δtotal cholesterol, and ΔLDL‐C concentration.

Conclusions: Several pro‐atherogenic changes in the amounts of lipids but not in the composition of lipoprotein particles were observed in acquired obesity. In particular, accumulation of liver fat was associated with lipid disturbances, independent of genetic effects.
Quantification of total and visceral adipose tissue in fructose‐fed rats using water‐fat separated single echo MRI
Authors: Rönn Monika , Lind P. Monica , Karlsson Helen , Cvek Katarina , Berglund Johan , Malmberg Filip , Örberg Jan , Lind Lars , Ortiz‐Nieto Francisco , Kullberg Joel
Published: May 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to setup a rodent model for modest weight gain and an MRI‐based quantification of body composition on a clinical 1.5 T MRI system for studies of obesity and environmental factors and their possible association.

Design and Methods

Twenty‐four 4‐week‐old female Fischer rats were divided into two groups: one exposed group (n = 12) and one control group (n = 12). The exposed group was given drinking water containing fructose (5% for 7 weeks, then 20% for 3 weeks). The control group was given tap water. Before sacrifice, whole body MRI was performed to determine volumes of total and visceral adipose tissue and lean tissue. MRI was performed using a clinical 1.5 T system and a chemical shift based technique for separation of water and fat signal from a rapid single echo acquisition. Fat signal fraction was used to separate adipose and lean tissue. Visceral adipose tissue volume was quantified using semiautomated segmentation. After sacrifice, a perirenal fat pad and the liver were dissected and weighed. Plasma proteins were analyzed by Western blot.

Results

The weight gain was 5.2% greater in rats exposed to fructose than in controls (P = 0.042). Total and visceral adipose tissue volumes were 5.2 cm3 (P = 0.017) and 3.1 cm3 (P = 0.019) greater, respectively, while lean tissue volumes did not differ. The level of triglycerides and apolipoprotein A‐I was higher (P = 0.034, P = 0.005, respectively) in fructose‐exposed rats.

Conclusions

The setup induced and assessed a modest visceral obesity and hypertriglyceridemia, making it suitable for further studies of a possible association between environmental factors and obesity.
Application of quantitative proteomic analysis using tandem mass tags for discovery and identification of novel biomarkers in periodontal disease
Authors: Tsuchida Sachio , Satoh Mamoru , Kawashima Yusuke , Sogawa Kazuyuki , Kado Sayaka , Sawai Setsu , Nishimura Motoi , Ogita Mayumi , Takeuchi Yasuo , Kobyashi Hiroaki , Aoki Akira , Kodera Yoshio , Matsushita Kazuyuki , Izumi Yuichi , Nomura Fumio
Published: May 2013

Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection that destroys the gingiva and surrounding tissues of the oral cavity. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) is extracted from the gingival sulcus and pocket. Analysis of biochemical markers in GCF, which predict the progression of periodontal disease, may facilitate disease diagnosis. However, no useful GCF biochemical markers with high sensitivity for detecting periodontal disease have been identified. Thus, the search for biochemical markers of periodontal disease is of continued interest in experimental and clinical periodontal disease research. Using tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling, we analyzed GCF samples from healthy subjects and patients with periodontal disease, and identified a total of 619 GCF proteins based on proteomic analysis. Of these, we focused on two proteins, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9 and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (LCN2), which are involved in the progression of periodontal disease. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of MMP‐9 and LCN2 were significantly higher in patients with periodontal disease than in healthy subjects. In addition, ELISA also detected significantly higher levels of LCN2 in patients with periodontal disease than in healthy subjects. Thus, LC‐MS/MS analyses of GCF using TMT labeling led to the identification of LCN2, which may be a promising GCF biomarker for the detection of periodontal disease.
Antibody‐based profiling of cerebrospinal fluid within multiple sclerosis
Authors: Häggmark Anna , Byström Sanna , Ayoglu Burcu , Qundos Ulrika , Uhlén Mathias , Khademi Mohsen , Olsson Tomas , Schwenk Jochen M. , Nilsson Peter
Published: May 2013

Antibody suspension bead arrays have proven to enable multiplexed and high‐throughput protein profiling in unfractionated plasma and serum samples through a direct labeling approach. We here describe the development and application of an assay for protein profiling of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). While setting up the assay, systematic intensity differences between sample groups were observed that reflected inherent sample specific total protein amounts. Supplementing the labeling reaction with BSA and IgG diminished these differences without impairing the apparent sensitivity of the assay. We also assessed the effects of heat treatment on the analysis of CSF proteins and applied the assay to profile 43 selected proteins by 101 antibodies in 339 CSF samples from a multiple sclerosis (MS) cohort. Two proteins, GAP43 and SERPINA3 were found to have a discriminating potential with altered intensity levels between sample groups. GAP43 was detected at significantly lower levels in secondary progressive MS compared to early stages of MS and the control group of other neurological diseases. SERPINA3 instead was detected at higher levels in all MS patients compared to controls. The developed assay procedure now offers new possibilities for broad‐scale protein profiling of CSF within neurological disorders.
Dual‐Polymer‐Functionalized Nanoscale Graphene Oxide as a Highly Effective Gene Transfection Agent for Insect Cells with Cell‐Type‐Dependent Cellular Uptake Mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Jing , Feng Liangzhu , Tan Xiaofang , Shi Xiaozhe , Xu Ligeng , Liu Zhuang , Peng Rui
Published: May 2013

Efficient and safe gene transfection carriers, especially for hard‐to‐transfect cells, are urgently demanded in basic biological research and gene therapy applications. Many insect cell lines widely used in molecular cell biology exhibit relatively low transfection efficiencies when treated by conventional non‐viral agents. Herein, we develop a novel gene delivery vector by coating graphene oxide (GO) with both polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyethylenimine (PEI), obtaining a dual‐polymer‐functionalized nanoscale GO (nGO‐PEG‐PEI) to transfect insect cells. While exhibiting remarkably reduced cytotoxicity compared with PEI, nGO‐PEG‐PEI, when used as the plasmid DNA transfection agent to treat Drosophila S2 cells, offers ≈7‐fold and ≈2.5‐fold higher efficiency compared with those achieved by using bare PEI and Lipofectamine 2000, a widely used commercial transfection agent, respectively. Interestingly, the advantages of nGO‐PEG‐PEI are even more dramatic when transfecting cells with lower‐quality linearized DNA. It is revealed that nGO‐PEG‐PEI/pDNA complexes enter insect cells via a unique pathway working even at a low temperature, rather different from their entry into mammalian adherent cells. Our results encourage the development of nano‐GO‐based gene carriers to treat special types of hard‐to‐transfect cells (e.g., insect cells), and indicate that nanomaterials would enter cells by cell‐type‐dependent mechanisms, which merit significantly more future attentions.
Preparation of Nano‐Structured RDX in a Silica Xerogel Matrix
Authors: Ingale Sanjay V. , Umamaheswara Sastry Pulya , Wagh Pratap B. , Tripathi Arvind K. , Tewari Raghvendra , Jayakrishnan Vaisyappattu B. , Phapale Suhas B. , Rao Pandugula T. , Wasnik Rajbal D. , Bhattacharya Bikas , Gupta Satish C.
Published: May 2013

RDX is preferred as explosive in munitions due to its balance of power and sensitivity that is known to be dependent on its particle size and size distribution. In this study, we prepared nano‐sized RDX in a silica xerogel matrix using a sol‐gel method and investigated its sensitivity for explosive properties. The presence of RDX in composite xerogel was confirmed by TG‐DSC and FTIR techniques. Microstructure and porosity were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), small angle X‐ray scattering, and N2‐physisorption techniques. TEM results showed that the size of RDX particles in the RDX‐silica composites is in the range of 10–30 nm. The sensitivity to impact and friction was found to be higher for the composites compared to raw RDX. It was also found to be significantly dependent on the acetone/TMOS ratio used in the preparation.
The Effect of Binder Systems on Early Aluminum Reaction in Detonations
Authors: Anderson Paul E. , Cook Paula , Davis Andy , Mychajlonka Kyle
Published: May 2013

The objective of this study was to determine compositional variables that result in early reaction of aluminum in detonations of pressed high explosive compositions, defined as reaction by 7 volume expansions as measured by 2.54 cm diameter copper cylinder expansion tests. In order to accomplish this in an economical fashion, statistical mixture design of experiments (DOE) was used in conjunction with anaerobic detonation calorimetry. The effect of binder type (e.g. energetic vs. inert), binder content, HMX content, aluminum content, and aluminum particle size was investigated. It was determined an energetic binder must be used to obtain significant aluminum reaction at volume expansions less than 7 V/V0. Aluminum particle size was only a minor factor. Furthermore, the compositional oxygen balance only provides a general indication of which compositions exhibit more aluminum reaction than others.
Single Step Synthesis of Nitro‐Functionalized Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene
Authors: Shekhar Pant C. , Santosh Mada S. S. N. M. , Banerjee Shaibal , Khanna Pawan K.
Published: May 2013

The paper reports the energization of Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene (HTPB) by functionalizing explosophore NO2 over the HTPB backbone, resulting in the formation of conjugated nitro‐alkene derivative of HTPB. A convenient, inexpensive and efficient “one pot” procedure of synthesizing Nitro‐Functionalized Hydroxyl‐Terminated Polybutadiene (Nitro‐HTPB) is reported. The reaction was carried out with sodium nitrite and iodine. To retain the unique physico‐chemical properties of HTPB, functionalization by NO2 group was restricted to 10 to 15 % of double bonds. The Nitro‐HTPB was characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, VPO, DSC, TGA etc. The polymer has shown good thermal stability for practical applications. The kinetic parameters for the decomposition of Nitro‐HTPB at 150–300 °C were obtained from non‐isothermal DSC data.
Aluminium alloy corrosion inhibition by chromate‐free composition of zinc phosphate and ion‐exchanged zeolite
Authors: Pokhmurskii V. I. , Zin I. M. , Bily L. M. , Vynar V. A. , Zin Ya I.
Published: May 2013

Corrosion inhibition of aluminium alloy D16T by natural and calcium and zinc ion‐exchanged zeolites and their compositions with phosphate pigment was studied. Clinoptilolite, a natural zeolite from Sokyrnytsia deposit (Transcarpathian region, Ukraine), has been used in this study as a basic component. Protective properties of polyurethane coatings containing ion‐exchanged zeolites were investigated in acid rain solution. Direct current polarization methods and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were used. It was established that composition of zinc phosphate and calcium ion‐exchanged zeolite has significant anti‐corrosion synergistic effect because of deposition of protective film on aluminium alloy surface. The addition of phosphate/zeolite‐inhibiting composition to polyurethane coating offers substantial increase of its protective properties in corrosion environment compared with the use of a single phosphate pigment. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cortisol Level Modulated by Integrative Meditation in a Dose‐dependent Fashion
Authors: Fan Yaxin , Tang Yi‐Yuan , Posner Michael I.
Published: May 2013

Prior research has shown that an additional training session immediately after acute stress decreases release of salivary cortisol in a college student group trained with 5‐day integrative body–mind training (IBMT) in comparison with a control group given the same amount of relaxation training. However, 5 days of training does not influence the basal secretion of cortisol. The current study seeks to extend this finding and determine whether increasing amounts of IBMT will decrease the basal cortisol level, suggesting reduced stress to daily activities. Thirty‐four Chinese undergraduates were randomly assigned either to 4 weeks of IBMT or a relaxation control. Salivary cortisol levels at baseline before training and the three stages of a stress intervention test (i.e. rest, stress and additional 20‐min practice) after 2 and 4 weeks of training were assessed. The basal cortisol level decreased significantly in the IBMT but not in relaxation group after 2 and 4 weeks of training. An additional IBMT practice session immediately after acute stress produced significantly lower cortisol release for the IBMT group in comparison with relaxation at weeks 2 and 4. The results indicate that IBMT produces a change in the basal endocrine system and larger acute effects as the dose of training increases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Firm‐specific human capital, organizational incentives, and agency costs: Evidence from retail banking
Authors: Frank Douglas H. , Obloj Tomasz
Published: May 2013

This paper explores conflicting implications of firm‐specific human capital (FSHC) for firm performance. Existing theory predicts a productivity effect that can be enhanced with strong incentives. We propose an offsetting agency effect: FSHC may facilitate more‐sophisticated ‘gaming’ of incentives, to the detriment of firm performance. Using a unique dataset from a multiunit retail bank, we document both effects and estimate their net impact. Managers with superior FSHC are more productive in selling loans but are also more likely to manipulate loan terms to increase incentive payouts. We find that resulting profits are two percentage points lower for high‐FSHC managers. Finally, profit losses increase more rapidly for high‐FSHC managers, indicating adverse learning. Our results suggest that FSHC can create agency costs that outweigh its productive benefits. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disaffiliation from a New Religious Movement: The Importance of Self and Others in Exit
Authors: Coates Dominiek D.
Published: May 2013

Challenging the popular belief that people who join new religious movements (NRMs) become “entrapped,” this study describes the way in which 23 former members of 11 different “cults” personally negotiated disaffiliation. The current findings support previous studies that posit exit as a resolution to unresolved doubts and dissonances, and contribute to this literature by suggesting that the nature of these dissonances, and the way in which exit constitutes a “solution” to these dissonances may vary. It is suggested that for approximately half of the participants in this study, the dissonances that precipitated exit, were relatively minor, primarily caused by organizational changes and inconsistencies in the teachings. While generally doubts were resolved privately and commitment sustained, exit occurred when alternate discourses or other identity resources became available through which doubts could become resolved. The remaining participants describe the conflicts that precipitated disaffiliation as pertaining to tensions between the groups' expectation of conformity and their sense of autonomy. These participants describe exit as a solution to the stress and emotional exhaustion of membership. To make sense of these different disaffiliation narratives, symbolic interactionist notions of the self as constructed in both the realm of “Self” and “Others” are applied.