bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of renal transplantation on glucose tolerance in Japanese recipients with impaired glucose tolerance
Authors: Nakamura A. , Iwami D. , Miyoshi H. , Morita K. , Taguri M. , Terauchi Y. , Shinohara N. , Atsumi T.
Published: August 2016

Aims

To investigate changes in glucose tolerance, insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity in Japanese recipients before and 1 year after renal transplantation.

Methods

We conducted a study of Japanese recipients without diabetes who underwent renal transplantation at Hokkaido University Hospital. A 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test was performed before and 1 year after renal transplantation in these recipients. Insulin sensitivity was estimated using the Matsuda index and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR). Insulin secretion was evaluated based on the insulin secretion sensitivity index‐2 (ISSI‐2).

Results

Of the 62 renal transplant recipients, 31 were diagnosed as having impaired glucose tolerance before transplantation. Among these 31 recipients, after 1 year, four had developed new‐onset diabetes after transplantation, and nine had impaired glucose tolerance. Unexpectedly, 18 changed from impaired to normal glucose tolerance. When these recipients with impaired glucose tolerance were classified into a non‐amelioration group and an amelioration group, the ISSI‐2 was significantly reduced, with no significant changes in the Matsuda index or HOMA‐IR, in the non‐amelioration group 1 year after renal transplantation. By contrast, ISSI‐2 and Matsuda index values were significantly increased, with no significant changes in HOMA‐IR values in the amelioration group.

Conclusions

More than half of Japanese renal transplant recipients with impaired glucose tolerance had normal glucose tolerance 1 year after renal transplantation. These results suggest that an increase in insulin secretion and whole insulin sensitivity was associated with improvement in glucose tolerance in these recipients.
Increased motor activity of the beetle Laemostenus punctatus caused by a static magnetic field of 110 mT
Authors: Pavlović Danica , Petković Branka , Ćurčić Srećko , Todorović Dajana , Vesović Nikola , Pantelić Dejan , Perić‐Mataruga Vesna
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a static magnetic field on six behavioral parameters (travel distance, average speed while in motion, travel distance of the head, body rotations, time in movement, and immobility time) of the ground beetle Laemostenus (Pristonychus) punctatus (Dejean) (Coleoptera: Carabidae). Adults of this troglophilic and guanophilic beetle were randomly divided into two groups, the first exposed to a static magnetic field of 110 mT for 5 h, and the second a control group. Beetle behavior after these 5 h was monitored in an open‐field test for 12 min and analyzed using ANY‐maze software. Exposure to a static magnetic field of 110 mT increased motor activity (travel distance and average speed while in motion) in the first 4 min. After that there were no significant differences. We conclude that the applied static magnetic field affects motor activity of adult specimens of L. (P.) punctatus, and we discuss the mechanism, possibly through acting on the control centers responsible for orientation and movement.
Which companion plants affect the performance of green peach aphid on host plants? Testing of 12 candidate plants under laboratory conditions
Authors: Ben Issa Refka , Gautier Hélène , Costagliola Guy , Gomez Laurent
Published: August 2016

Intercropping of companion plants (CPs) that release distinct volatile compounds with horticultural crops has been proposed to improve pest management. AlthoughCPextracts or essential oils have been reported to be efficient in disturbing the settling of insects such as aphids, the effect of using actualCPs remains relatively unknown. Our aim was to screen odorousCPspecies for their effect on the performance of green peach aphid,Myzus persicaeSulzer (Hemiptera:Aphididae), when released on adjacent pepper plants. Intercropping was tested in growth chambers using potted plants to avoid root interactions and homogenise the abiotic environment ofCPs. Our results indicated that eightCPspecies—rosemary, African marigold, French marigold, geranium, lavender, basil, chives, and pot marigold—affected aphid performance by reducing the reproductive performance and/or settlement of females. Rosemary followed by African and French marigold was associated with the largest reduction in adult female and nymph number. Chemical analyses indicated that rosemary and French marigold emit specific volatiles. In contrast, fourCPspecies (false yellowhead, thyme, savoury, and peppermint) were not associated with a significant change in aphid performance and emitted a lower diversity of volatiles. This screening ofCPs under controlled conditions may be considered as a first step towards the identification of volatiles emitted by actual plants that can affect aphid performance and help the choice ofCPs to optimise intercropping strategies.
No evidence of parthenogenesis‐inducing bacteria involved in Thripoctenus javae thelytoky: an unusual finding in Chalcidoidea
Authors: Monti Maurilia M. , Nugnes Francesco , Gualtieri Liberata , Gebiola Marco , Bernardo Umberto
Published: August 2016

All Hymenoptera have a haplodiploid mode of sex determination. Although most species reproduce by arrhenotokous parthenogenesis, there are many thelytokous species, in which unfertilized eggs develop into diploid females. Thelytoky can be genetic or due to microbial infection. In the large Chalcidoidea superfamily, thelytokous parthenogenesis is almost always associated with infection of endosymbionts of the genera Wolbachia, Cardinium, and Rickettsia. Thripoctenus javae (Girault) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) is a larval parasitoid of the greenhouse thrips Heliothrips haemorrhoidalis (Bouché) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae), an important worldwide pest. Both the host and its parasitoid reproduce by thelytokous parthenogenesis. The main goal of this study was to test whether endosymbiotic bacteria, either those known to induce thelytokous parthenogenesis or other sex‐manipulators, are responsible for thelytoky of two geographically distinct populations of T. javae. We used sequencing of ribosomal ITS2 and 28S‐D2 and mitochondrial COI genes to molecularly characterize the two populations, antibiotic and heat treatments, and FISH of ovaries, for thelytoky studies. It was impossible to revert thelytokous individuals back to sexual reproduction and no evidence of bacterial infection was found in parthenogenetic T. javae females. This makes T. javae the second chalcidoid in which thelytokous reproduction appears not to be associated with the presence of bacterial endosymbionts.
Fate of mouse carcasses in a Northern Woodland
Authors: TRUMBO STEPHEN T.
Published: August 2016

1. Small, vertebrate carrion is a significant input into terrestrial ecosystems. The relative importance of different recyclers of carrion is poorly understood because of seasonal and habitat variation and methodological differences among studies. Many studies, in particular, do not account adequately for the activity of burying beetles (Nicrophorus spp.).

2. The present work, utilising a previously unstudied woodland, addresses this concern by: placing only two carcasses in the field at one time, using microsites only once, and providing a means to easily recover successful burying beetles.

3. Burying beetles buried 77.5% of experimental mouse carcasses over their breeding season, and typically did so within three activity periods after placement (30 of 31 burials).

4. The results and a brief review suggest that burying beetles are the dominant summer competitor for small, vertebrate carrion in mid‐ and northern latitude woodlands. Information on the age of carcasses utilised by burying beetles also provides an ecological context for laboratory studies of behaviour, life history, and microbial interactions.
Prediction on fatigue life of U‐notched PMMA plate
Authors: Liu W. , Yao X. , Ma Y. , Chen X. , Guo G. , Ma L.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, fatigue life prediction of U‐notched polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) plate is numerically investigated based on the combination of fatigue damage mechanism and fatigue crack propagation mechanism. First, strength and stiffness degeneration criterions during the fatigue process are established on the basis of nonlinear progressive damage evolution, and the fatigue crack initiation life is estimated. Second, fatigue crack propagation phase is analysed through virtual crack closure technique. The fatigue crack propagation life before totally fracture is also predicted. Finally, finite element models of PMMA plate weakened by lateral symmetric U‐notch are built up using ABAQUS, and the total fatigue life of notched plate is calculated by combining the crack initiation life with the crack propagation life. These results will play an important role for evaluating the fatigue life of U‐notched PMMA plate.
Remaking Government in Canada: Dares, Resilience, and Civility in Westminster Systems
Authors: Lindquist Evert A. , Eichbaum Chris
Published: August 2016

By 2015 concern had emerged about the trajectory of Canada's Westminster model and the state of democratic governance under successive Harper governments, particularly with respect to transparency and relationships with public servants, which among other things led to the election of the Trudeau government in October 2015. This article compares these developments with the wholesale reform experiences in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom. We consider not only the evolving bargains between prime ministers and their ministers, political advisors, top officials, and legislatures, but also between party leaders and political parties, and between governments and civil society. Second, we characterize far‐reaching reforms as “dares,” intended to change the trajectory of Westminster systems, which carry political risks. Third, we consider the resilience of Westminster systems in the face of significant change and inaction. The Harper reforms were not nearly as dramatic as those of the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Australia during the late 1980s but did change the bargain with civil society, foundational to Westminster systems.

The essential principles of responsible government have stood up well to the test of experience, and will serve as well tomorrow as they have in the past. However, parliamentary government is an inherently evolutionary form of government. Task Force on Public Service Values and Ethics (, 17)
Demonstrating the financial impact of clinical libraries: a systematic review
Authors: Madden Anne , Collins Pamela , McGowan Sondhaya , Stevenson Paul , Castelli David , Hyde Loree , DeSanto Kristen , O'Brien Nancy , Purdon Michelle , Delgado Diana
Published: August 2016

Objective

The purpose of this review is to evaluate the tools used to measure the financial value of libraries in a clinical setting.

Methods

Searches were carried out on ten databases for the years 2003—2013, with a final search before completion to identify any recent papers.

Results

Eleven papers met the final inclusion criteria. There was no evidence of a single ‘best practice’, and many metrics used to measure financial impact of clinical libraries were developed on an ad hoc basis locally. The most common measures of financial impact were value of time saved, value of resource collection against cost of alternative sources, cost avoidance and revenue generated through assistance on grant submissions. Few papers provided an insight into the longer term impact on the library service resulting from submitting return on investment (ROI) or other financial impact statements.

Conclusions

There are limited examples of metrics which clinical libraries can use to measure explicit financial impact. The methods highlighted in this literature review are generally implicit in the measures used and lack robustness. There is a need for future research to develop standardised, validated tools that clinical libraries can use to demonstrate their financial impact.
DISCRIMINATION IN A MODEL OF CONTESTS WITH INCOMPLETE INFORMATION ABOUT ABILITY
Authors: Pérez‐Castrillo David , Wettstein David
Published: August 2016

We study contests with private information and identical contestants, where contestants' efforts and innate abilities generate output of varying qualities. The designer's revenue depends on the quality of the output, and she offers a reward to the contestant achieving the highest quality. We characterize the equilibrium behavior, outcomes, and payoffs for both nondiscriminatory and discriminatory (where the reward is contestant‐dependent) contests. We derive conditions under which the designer obtains a larger payoff when using a discriminatory contest and describe settings, where these conditions are satisfied.
APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY AND INCOME DIFFERENCES
Authors: Okoye Dozie
Published: August 2016

This article studies the relative productivity of skilled to unskilled workers across countries. Relative productivities are broken down into the human capital embodied in skilled workers and relative physical productivities (reflecting production techniques). I find that skilled workers from poorer countries embody less human capital and are also relatively less physically productive. Furthermore, results show that production techniques are inappropriate for most low‐income countries, and these countries experience large increases in GDP per capita by increasing the relative physical productivity of skilled to unskilled workers. This suggests that there are significant barriers to the adoption of skill‐complementary technologies.
INCENTIVE EFFICIENT PRICE SYSTEMS IN LARGE INSURANCE ECONOMIES WITH ADVERSE SELECTION
Authors: Citanna Alessandro , Siconolfi Paolo
Published: August 2016

We decentralize incentive efficient allocations in large adverse selection economies by introducing a competitive market for mechanisms, that is, for menus of contracts. Facing a budget constraint, informed individuals purchase (lottery) tickets to enter mechanisms, whereas firms sell tickets and supply slots at mechanisms at given prices. Beyond optimization, market clearing, and rational expectations, an equilibrium requires that firms cannot favorably change, or cut, prices. An equilibrium exists and is incentive efficient. An equilibrium can be computed as the solution to a programming problem that selects the incentive efficient outcome preferred by the highest type within an appropriately defined set. For two‐types economies, this is the only equilibrium outcome.
DOES RELIGIOSITY AFFECT SUPPORT FOR POLITICAL COMPROMISE?
Authors: Cohen‐Zada Danny , Margalit Yotam , Rigbi Oren
Published: August 2016

Does religiosity affect adherents' attitude toward political compromise? To address this question and overcome the potential simultaneity of religious activity and political attitudes, we exploit exogenous variation in the start date of the Selichot (“Forgiveness”), a period in which many Jews, including nonadherents, take part in an intense prayer schedule. Using a two‐wave survey, we find that an increase in the salience of religiosity leads to the adoption of more hard‐line positions against a land‐for‐peace compromise. Examining several potential mechanisms for this attitudinal shift, our evidence points to the impact of the intensified prayer period on adherents' tolerance for risk.
Expression patterns of Ikaros family members during positive selection and lineage commitment of human thymocytes
Authors: Mitchell Julie L. , Seng Amara , Yankee Thomas M.
Published: August 2016

The Ikaros family of transcription factors is essential for normal T‐cell development, but their expression pattern in human thymocytes remains poorly defined. Our goal is to determine how protein levels of Ikaros, Helios and Aiolos change as human thymocytes progress through the positive selection and lineage commitment stages. To accomplish this goal, we used multi‐parameter flow cytometry to define the populations in which positive selection and lineage commitment are most likely to occur. After human thymocytes express CD3 and receive positive selection signals, the cells down‐regulate expression of CD4 to become transitional single‐positive (TSP) CD8+ thymocytes. At this stage, there was a transient increase in the Ikaros, Helios and Aiolos protein levels. After the TSP CD8+ developmental stage, some thymocytes re‐express CD4 and become CD3hi double‐positive thymocytes before down‐regulating CD8 to become mature single‐positive CD4+ thymocytes. Except for regulatory T cells, Helios protein levels declined and Aiolos protein levels transiently increased during CD4+ T‐cell maturation. For thymocytes progressing toward the CD8+ T‐cell lineage, TSP CD8+ thymocytes increase their expression of CD3 and maintain high levels of Aiolos protein as the cells complete their maturation. In summary, we defined the TSP CD8+ developmental stage in human T‐cell development and propose that this stage is where CD4/CD8 lineage commitment occurs. Ikaros, Helios and Aiolos each undergo a transient increase in protein levels at the TSP stage before diverging in their expression patterns at later stages.
Use of customised pressure‐guided elastic bandages to improve efficacy of compression bandaging for venous ulcers
Authors: Sermsathanasawadi Nuttawut , Chatjaturapat Choedpong , Pianchareonsin Rattana , Puangpunngam Nattawut , Wongwanit Chumpol , Chinsakchai Khamin , Ruangsetakit Chanean , Mutirangura Pramook
Published: August 2016

Compression bandaging is a major treatment of chronic venous ulcers. Its efficacy depends on the applied pressure, which is dependent on the skill of the individual applying the bandage. To improve the quality of bandaging by reducing the variability in compression bandage interface pressures, we changed elastic bandages into a customised version by marking them with circular ink stamps, applied when the stretch achieves an interface pressure between 35 and 45 mmHg. Repeated applications by 20 residents of the customised bandage and non‐marked bandage to one smaller and one larger leg were evaluated by measuring the sub‐bandage pressure.

The results demonstrated that the target pressure range is more often attained with the customised bandage compared with the non‐marked bandage. The customised bandage improved the efficacy of compression bandaging for venous ulcers, with optimal sub‐bandage pressure.
Topical cetirizine and oral vitamin D: a valid treatment for hypotrichosis caused by ectodermal dysplasia
Authors: Rossi A. , Miraglia E. , Fortuna M.C. , Calvieri S. , Giustini S.
Published: August 2016

Background

Ectodermal dysplasia is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of inherited disorders characterized by abnormal development of two or more of the following ectodermal‐derived structures: hair, teeth, nails and sweat glands. The hair is the most frequently affected structure. Hair shaft abnormalities are of great concern to these patients, but no effective treatments are available.

Methods

We describe three girls with congenital hypotrichosis (9, 5 and 6 years old) caused by ectodermal dysplasia treated with topical cetirizine solution (2 mL. once daily) and oral vitamin D supplementation (1000 IU daily).

Results

After 6 months of treatment, the density of hair on the scalp increased in all patients.

The vellus hair was replaced by terminal hair. Hair regrowth was evaluated both from the clinical and trichoscopic point of view.

Conclusion

We propose a combination of topical cetirizine and oral vitamin D as a rational treatment of choice in congenital hypotrichosis caused by ectodermal dysplasia.
Beard alopecia areata: a multicentre review of 55 patients
Authors: Saceda‐Corralo D. , Grimalt R. , Fernández‐Crehuet P. , Clemente A. , Bernárdez C. , García‐Hernandez M.J. , Arias‐Santiago S. , Rodrigues‐Barata A.R. , Rodríguez‐Pichardo A. , García‐Lora E. , Jaén P. , Camacho F.M. , Vañó‐Galván S.
Published: August 2016

Background

Alopecia areata on the beard area (BAA) is a common clinical manifestation, but there are no studies about its characteristics.

Objective

To describe the epidemiology, comorbidities, clinical presentation, evolution, diagnostic findings and therapeutic choices in a series of patients with BAA.

Methods

This retrospective multicentre review included patients diagnosed with BAA as the first and unique clinical manifestation with at least 12 months of follow‐up. Diagnosis was performed based on the typical clinical features. Extra‐beard involvement was monitored in all cases.

Results

Overall, 55 male patients with a mean age of 39.1 years (range 20–74) were included. Twenty‐five patients (45.5%) developed alopecia of the scalp during follow‐up and more than 80% of cases appeared in the first 12.4 months. Clinical presentation of AA on the scalp was patchy AA (less than 5 patches) (52%), multifocal AA (28%), AA totalis (12%) and AA universalis (8%). Multivariate analysis revealed a trend of association between scalp involvement and family history of AA without statistical significance.

Conclusions

According to this study, BAA may progress to scalp AA in a significant number of patients (45.5% of the patients with a follow‐up interval of at least 12 months). In the group of patients who developed scalp AA, 80% of them did it within the first 12 months, so follow‐up of patients with BAA is highly encouraged.
Across Five Eras: Patent Validity and Infringement Rates in U.S. Courts, 1929–2006
Authors: Henry Matthew D. , Turner John L.
Published: August 2016

We use structural break analysis to estimate rates of patent validity and infringement in decisions on the merits in U.S. courts over 1929–2006. We separately estimate these rates for district court and appeals court decisions. We find multiple structural breaks in both validity and infringement, and the breaks do not coincide. The rate of validity falls around 1939 and rises around 1983, while the rate of infringement rises around 1950 and falls around 1991. We argue that these breaks, and the variation across the implied five “eras” of decision standards, reflect political and legal innovations.
Revisiting Eisenberg and Plaintiff Success: State Court Civil Trial and Appellate Outcomes
Authors: Heise Michael , Wells Martin T.
Published: August 2016

Despite what Priest‐Klein theory predicts, in earlier research on federal civil cases, Eisenberg found an association between plaintiff success in pretrial motions and at trial. Our extension of Eisenberg's analysis 20 years later into the state court context, however, does not uncover any statistically significant association between a plaintiff's success at trial and preserving that trial victory on appeal. Our results imply that a plaintiff's decision to pursue litigation to a trial court conclusion is analytically distinct from the plaintiff's decision to defend an appeal of its trial court win brought by a disgruntled defendant. We consider various factors that likely account for the observed differences that distinguish our results from Eisenberg's. First, legal cases that persist to an appellate outcome are a filtered subset of underlying trials and legal disputes and various selection effects inform much of this case filtering. Second, where Eisenberg analyzed the relation between pretrial motions and trial outcomes in federal courts, we assess possible relations between trial and appellate court outcomes in state courts. The pretrial and trial context and the trial and appeals context likely differ in ways that disturb plaintiff success. Third, while Eisenberg studied federal cases between 1978–1985 we study state cases between 2001–2009. In addition to differences between federal and state civil cases, the composition of cases that selected into formal litigation may have evolved over time.
Diagnosis and outcome of Clostridium difficile infection by toxin enzyme immunoassay and polymerase chain reaction in an island population
Authors: Kumar Shankar , Pollok Richard , Muscat Ivan , Planche Timothy
Published: August 2016

Background and Aim

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a potentially life‐threatening cause of diarrhea. Correct laboratory diagnosis is essential to differentiate CDI from other causes of diarrhea. A positive fecal C. difficile toxin (CDT) is the best indicator of CDI, but the significance of a positive fecal nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) remains unclear. Our aim was to elucidate the significance of CDI diagnostics in patients in Jersey.

Methods

A retrospective, 5‐year study was conducted at an island district general hospital of patients who developed CDI. Patients were grouped according to CDT and NAAT status and their association with outcome (indicators of severity and 30‐day case‐fatality rate) compared.

Results

A total of 207 specimens were toxin positive, 92 NAAT positive and toxin negative, and 39 had a stool sample negative by both toxin and NAAT testing. A positive toxin stool sample was associated with both significantly higher white cell count (14.5 × 109/L vs 11.3 × 109/L, P = 0.003) and C‐reactive protein (114.7 mg/dL vs 82.9 mg/dL, P = 0.001), but NAAT positivity was not (P = 0.269, 0.728). A positive CDT assay was a significant independent predictor of death (odds ratio [OR]: 1.89 [95% CI: 1.04–3.43], P = 0.046), but a positive NAAT in CDT negative samples was not (OR: 1.02 [95% CI: 0.34–3.12], P = 1.0).

Conclusions

The findings of this study, derived from evolving clinical practice, provide greater clarity in the interpretation of CDI diagnostics. In CDT‐negative disease, a positive NAAT neither predicts disease severity nor mortality. NAAT‐positive and toxin‐negative patients require instigation of infection control measures, but the need for specific treatment remains unclear.
Effects of cranial integration on hominid endocranial shape
Authors: Zollikofer Christoph P. E. , Bienvenu Thibaut , Ponce de León Marcia S.
Published: August 2016

Because brains do not fossilize, the internal surface of the braincase (endocast) serves as an important source of information about brain growth, development, and evolution. Recent studies of endocranial morphology and development in great apes, fossil hominins, and modern humans have revealed taxon‐specific differences. However, it remains to be investigated to which extent differences in endocranial morphology reflect differences in actual brain morphology and development, and to which extent they reflect different interactions of the brain and its case with the cranial base and face. Here we address this question by analyzing the effects of cranial integration on endocranial morphology. We test the ‘spatial packing’ and ‘facial orientation’ hypotheses, which propose that size and orientation of the neurocranium relative to the viscerocranium influence endocranial shape. Results show that a substantial proportion of endocranial shape variation along and across ontogenetic trajectories is due to cranial integration. Specifically, the uniquely globular shape of the human endocast mainly results from the combination of an exceptionally large brain with a comparatively small face. Overall, thus, cranial integration has pervasive effects on endocranial morphology, and only a comparatively small proportion of inter‐ and intra‐taxon variation can directly be associated with variation in brain morphology.
Aligning Knowledge Assets for Exploitation, Exploration, and Ambidexterity: A Study of Companies in High‐Tech Parks in China
Authors: Lin Hsing‐Er , McDonough Edward F. , Yang Jie , Wang Chihyuan
Published: August 2016

There is little research that has explored the effects of how knowledge assets are aligned with each other in exploitation and exploration innovation strategies. This study uses alignment theory to explore the effects of aligning knowledge assets on facilitating a firm's ability to pursue ambidexterity, which is defined as the simultaneous pursuit of explorative and exploitative innovation strategies. We also explore the relative influence of organizational and human capital in fostering an exploitation innovation strategy on the one hand, and an exploration innovation strategy on the other. Using a primary survey sample of 127 companies in two high‐tech parks in China, we found that greater reliance on relatively more organizational capital versus human capital has a significantly positive impact on the success of an exploitative innovation strategy. The amount of organizational capital relative to the amount of human capital has a stronger positive association with exploratory innovation strategy when social capital is greater. We also found that the combination of organizational, human, and social capital fosters ambidexterity, i.e., the simultaneous pursuit of exploration and exploitation. This study extends alignment theory and examines the effects of aligning these knowledge assets on a firm's ability to foster organizational ambidexterity.
Prevalence and risk factors for viral blipping in chronic hepatitis B patients treated with nucleos (t) ide analogues
Authors: Brahmania M. , Brouwer W. P. , Hansen T. , Mazzulli T. , Feld J. , Wong D. , Kowgier M. , Janssen H. L. A.
Published: August 2016

The clinical relevance of viral blipping during nucleos (t) ide analogue (NA) treatment is unclear in chronic hepatitis B (CHB). We investigated the prevalence, risk factors and clinical outcomes for those with viral blipping during NA treatment. A retrospective cohort study investigated consecutively treated CHB patients from May 2008 to February 2015 on the NAs such as entecavir (ETV), tenofovir (TDF) and lamivudine (LAM). Included patients were previously treatment naive. Viral blipping was defined as serum HBV DNA >20 IU/mL on one occasion, and not >200 IU/mL, with subsequent measurement returning to undetectable levels, that is <20 IU/mL. A total of 242 treatment‐compliant CHB patients were included with 44 (18.2%) experiencing viral blipping. In multivariable Cox regression, Asian race (HR=7.40, 95% CI 1.01–54.29, P<.049), LAM therapy (vs ETV/TDF, HR=2.53, 95% CI 1.29–4.95, P<.007), higher creatinine (per SD, HR=1.47, 95% CI 1.21–1.79, P<.001), HBeAg positivity (HR=2.68, 95% CI 1.39–5.03, P<.003) and longer time to achieve undetectable HBV DNA (per month, HR=1.05, 95% CI 1.02–1.08, P=.001) were associated with an increased risk of viral blipping. Viral blipping did not show any significant association with viral breakthrough, HBsAg loss, ALT flares or disease progression. Viral blipping is a frequent event during NA therapy; however, it did not lead to any clinically significant outcomes. Thus, it may not require more frequent blood work and patient visits in clinical practice.
Effects of Dietary Lysine Levels on Growth, Intestinal Digestive Enzymes, and Coelomic Fluid Nonspecific Immune Enzymes of Sea Cucumber, Apostichopus japonicus, Juveniles
Authors: Liu Chenmin , Han Yuzhe , Ren Tongjun , Jiang Zhiqiang , Wang Fuqiang , Liao Mingling , Wang Jing
Published: August 2016

A 56‐d feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary lysine levels on growth performance, intestinal digestive enzymes, and nonspecific immune response of Apostichopus japonicus juveniles. Five semipurified diets were formulated to contain graded levels of lysine (from 0.28 to 2.32% of dry matter). Although no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in survival rate, final weight (FW), and body weight gain (BWG), the FW and BWG increased from 0.28 to 1.19% with increasing dietary lysine levels, then showed a declining tendency. Broken‐line regression analysis of BWG indicated sea cucumber requires lysine at 0.76% of dry diet. Proximate composition, lysine content of the body wall, and total amino acid profiles were not affected by dietary treatments. Intestinal protease level increased with increasing dietary lysine level from 0.28 to 1.19%, then decreased. Acid phosphatase and superoxide dismutase activities of the sea cucumbers were not affected by various dietary lysine levels; however, significantly (P < 0.05) higher alkaline phosphatase activity was observed in sea cucumbers fed 2.32% lysine diet than those fed diets having 0.28 and 1.89% lysine. Overall, sea cucumber juveniles fed with diets containing between 0.76 and 1.19% lysine showed better growth performance, digestive enzymes, and nonspecific immune enzyme activities.
Aerobic photoreactivity of synthetic eumelanins and pheomelanins: generation of singlet oxygen and superoxide anion
Authors: Szewczyk Grzegorz , Zadlo Andrzej , Sarna Michal , Ito Shosuke , Wakamatsu Kazumasa , Sarna Tadeusz
Published: August 2016

In this work, we examined photoreactivity of synthetic eumelanins, formed by autooxidation of DOPA, or enzymatic oxidation of 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid and synthetic pheomelanins obtained by enzymatic oxidation of 5‐S‐cysteinyldopa or 1:1 mixture of DOPA and cysteine. Electron paramagnetic resonance oximetry and spin trapping were used to measure oxygen consumption and formation of superoxide anion induced by irradiation of melanin with blue light, and time‐resolved near‐infrared luminescence was employed to determine the photoformation of singlet oxygen between 300 and 600 nm. Both superoxide anion and singlet oxygen were photogenerated by the synthetic melanins albeit with different efficiency. At 450‐nm, quantum yield of singlet oxygen was very low (~10−4) but it strongly increased in the UV region. The melanins quenched singlet oxygen efficiently, indicating that photogeneration and quenching of singlet oxygen may play an important role in aerobic photochemistry of melanin pigments and could contribute to their photodegradation and photoaging.
Assessment of a cytomegalovirus serology dual‐testing strategy in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients
Authors: Perry D.A. , Hakki M.
Published: August 2016

Background

Accurate determination of recipient cytomegalovirus (CMV) serostatus before allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is critical, as it is the most important predictor of post‐transplant CMV infection and remains associated with non‐relapse mortality. The purpose of this study was to assess a recipient dual‐testing strategy before HSCT.

Methods

CMV serologic testing was performed before allogeneic HSCT using 2 different assays: reference laboratory (RL) and American Red Cross (ARC). In all cases, blood samples were obtained for RL testing either before ARC testing (median 130 days before HSCT [range 12–2594]) or at the same time (median 25 days before HSCT [range 8–129]). The results of serologic testing were correlated with CMV viremia post HSCT.

Results

Of 287 recipients evaluated, 76 (26.5%) had discordant results, of which 74 (97.4%) tested RL−/ARC+. Ten had RL and ARC testing performed on simultaneously obtained samples, 3 of which (30%) were discordant (3 [100%] RL−/ARC+). Acute myeloid leukemia and receipt of blood product transfusion in the interval between testing were associated with RL−/ARC+ discordance. Correlation with viremia after HSCT suggested that RL−/ARC+ discordance was caused by detection of anti‐CMV immunoglobulin transferred in transfused blood products and reduced specificity of the ARC assay.

Conclusion

CMV‐seronegative hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients may be misclassified as seropositive if testing is performed after receipt of blood products or when using assays optimized for sensitivity at the expense of specificity. This misclassification may negatively affect post‐HSCT outcomes for individual patients and studies that rely on accurate CMV serology reporting.
Multistable perception of ambiguous melodies and the role of musical expertise
Authors: Brosowsky Nicholaus P. , Mondor Todd A.
Published: August 2016

Whereas visual demonstrations of multistability are ubiquitous, there are few auditory examples. The purpose of the current study was to determine whether simultaneously presented melodies, such as underlie the scale illusion [Deutsch (1975). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 57(5), 1156–1160], can elicit multiple mutually exclusive percepts, and whether reported perceptions are mediated by musical expertise. Participants listened to target melodies and reported whether the target was embedded in subsequent test melodies. Target sequences were created such that they would only be heard if the listener interpreted the test melody according to various perceptual cues. Critically, and in contrast with previous examinations of the scale illusion, an objective measure of target detection was obtained by including target-absent test melodies. As a result, listeners could reliably identify target sequences from different perceptual organizations when presented with the same test melody on different trials. This result demonstrates an ability to alternate between mutually exclusive percepts of an unchanged stimulus. However, only perceptual organizations consistent with frequency and spatial cues were available and musical expertise did mediate target detection, limiting the organizations available to non-musicians. The current study provides the first known demonstration of auditory multistability using simultaneously presented melodies and provides a unique experimental method for measuring auditory perceptual competition.
Incorporating directivity in the Fourier pseudospectral time-domain method using spherical harmonics
Authors: Georgiou Fotis , Hornikx Maarten
Published: August 2016

The pseudospectral time-domain method (PSTD) provides an efficient way to solve the linear acoustics equations. With regards to acoustic modeling and auralization, source directivity as well as head-related directivity have a clear influence on the perceived sound field and have to be included in computations. In this paper directive sources are implemented in the time-domain method PSTD. First, a given frequency dependent source directivity is decomposed onto spherical harmonic functions. The directive source is then implemented through spatial distributions in PSTD that relate to the spherical harmonic functions, and time-dependent functions are assigned to the spatial distributions in order to obtain the frequency content of the directivity. Since any directivity function can be expressed as a summation of series of spherical harmonics, the approach can be used to model any type of directive source. For the evaluation of the method, a directivity function was designed analytically and then modeled in PSTD. Octave band analysis was performed and results show a good agreement between the analytical and simulated directivity. A distance related error was observed. However, for distances above 17.5 grid cells from the source center the average error was small (<0.9 dB) at all octave-bands.
Subjective dominance as a basis for selecting frequency weightings
Authors: Torija Antonio J. , Flindell Ian H. , Self Rod H.
Published: August 2016

The objective of this paper is to propose and illustrate a simple approach for the selection of frequency weightings for the assessment of environmental and transportation noise. In recent years, the A-frequency weighting has become almost universal except where existing standards and regulations mandate the use of alternative weightings and/or frequency summation procedures, but even where this has been based on extensive research, no real consensus has been achieved. The proposed approach is based on the concept of subjective dominance, which does not always conform to the physically dominant frequencies identified by the A- or other frequency weightings and summation procedures used in measurements and/or predictions. The proposed approach is illustrated by the results of a limited series of five listening tests that clearly demonstrate that no single objective frequency weighting or summation procedure is capable of providing the best-fit to subjective responses across a range of different contexts. Subjective dominance varies across different listening contexts and situations, and should, therefore, be considered whenever noise management and control decisions are being made. The proposed approach will naturally require further research because of the wide range of different contexts and situations in which it might need to be applied.
Nicotiana alata Defensin Chimeras Reveal Differences in the Mechanism of Fungal and Tumor Cell Killing and an Enhanced Antifungal Variant
Authors: Bleackley Mark R. , Payne Jennifer A. E. , Hayes Brigitte M. E. , Durek Thomas , Craik David J. , Shafee Thomas M. A. , Poon Ivan K. H. , Hulett Mark D. , van der Weerden Nicole L. , Anderson Marilyn A.
Published: August 2016

The plant defensin NaD1 is a potent antifungal molecule that also targets tumor cells with a high efficiency. We examined the features of NaD1 that contribute to these two activities by producing a series of chimeras with NaD2, a defensin that has relatively poor activity against fungi and no activity against tumor cells. All plant defensins have a common tertiary structure known as a cysteine-stabilized α-β motif which consists of an α helix and a triple-stranded β-sheet stabilized by four disulfide bonds. The chimeras were produced by replacing loops 1 to 7, the sequences between each of the conserved cysteine residues on NaD1, with the corresponding loops from NaD2. The loop 5 swap replaced the sequence motif (SKILRR) that mediates tight binding with phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate [PI(4,5)P
2
] and is essential for the potent cytotoxic effect of NaD1 on tumor cells. Consistent with previous reports, there was a strong correlation between PI(4,5)P
2
binding and the tumor cell killing activity of all of the chimeras. However, this correlation did not extend to antifungal activity. Some of the loop swap chimeras were efficient antifungal molecules, even though they bound poorly to PI(4,5)P
2
, suggesting that additional mechanisms operate against fungal cells. Unexpectedly, the loop 1B swap chimera was 10 times more active than NaD1 against filamentous fungi. This led to the conclusion that defensin loops have evolved as modular components that combine to make antifungal molecules with variable mechanisms of action and that artificial combinations of loops can increase antifungal activity compared to that of the natural variants.
IMP-27, a Unique Metallo-β-Lactamase Identified in Geographically Distinct Isolates of Proteus mirabilis
Authors: Dixon Nyssa , Fowler Randal C. , Yoshizumi A. , Horiyama Tsukasa , Ishii Y. , Harrison Lucas , Geyer Chelsie N. , Moland Ellen Smith , Thomson Kenneth , Hanson Nancy D.
Published: August 2016

A novel metallo-β-lactamase gene,
bla
IMP-27
, was identified in unrelated
Proteus mirabilis
isolates from two geographically distinct locations in the United States. Both isolates harbor
bla
IMP-27
as part of the first gene cassette in a class 2 integron. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated susceptibility to aztreonam, piperacillin-tazobactam, and ceftazidime but resistance to ertapenem. However, hydrolysis assays indicated that ceftazidime was a substrate for IMP-27.
Lipogenesis and Redox Balance in Nitrogen-Fixing Pea Bacteroids
Authors: Terpolilli Jason J. , Masakapalli Shyam K. , Karunakaran Ramakrishnan , Webb Isabel U. C. , Green Rob , Watmough Nicholas J. , Kruger Nicholas J. , Ratcliffe R. George , Poole Philip S.
Published: August 2016

Within legume root nodules, rhizobia differentiate into bacteroids that oxidize host-derived dicarboxylic acids, which is assumed to occur via the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle to generate NAD(P)H for reduction of N
2
. Metabolic flux analysis of laboratory-grown
Rhizobium leguminosarum
showed that the flux from [
13
C]succinate was consistent with respiration of an obligate aerobe growing on a TCA cycle intermediate as the sole carbon source. However, the instability of fragile pea bacteroids prevented their steady-state labeling under N
2
-fixing conditions. Therefore, comparative metabolomic profiling was used to compare free-living
R. leguminosarum
with pea bacteroids. While the TCA cycle was shown to be essential for maximal rates of N
2
fixation, levels of pyruvate (5.5-fold reduced), acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA; 50-fold reduced), free coenzyme A (33-fold reduced), and citrate (4.5-fold reduced) were much lower in bacteroids. Instead of completely oxidizing acetyl-CoA, pea bacteroids channel it into both lipid and the lipid-like polymer poly-β-hydroxybutyrate (PHB), the latter via a type III PHB synthase that is active only in bacteroids. Lipogenesis may be a fundamental requirement of the redox poise of electron donation to N
2
in all legume nodules. Direct reduction by NAD(P)H of the likely electron donors for nitrogenase, such as ferredoxin, is inconsistent with their redox potentials. Instead, bacteroids must balance the production of NAD(P)H from oxidation of acetyl-CoA in the TCA cycle with its storage in PHB and lipids.

IMPORTANCE
Biological nitrogen fixation by symbiotic bacteria (rhizobia) in legume root nodules is an energy-expensive process. Within legume root nodules, rhizobia differentiate into bacteroids that oxidize host-derived dicarboxylic acids, which is assumed to occur via the TCA cycle to generate NAD(P)H for reduction of N
2
. However, direct reduction of the likely electron donors for nitrogenase, such as ferredoxin, is inconsistent with their redox potentials. Instead, bacteroids must balance oxidation of plant-derived dicarboxylates in the TCA cycle with lipid synthesis. Pea bacteroids channel acetyl-CoA into both lipid and the lipid-like polymer poly-β-hydroxybutyrate, the latter via a type II PHB synthase. Lipogenesis is likely to be a fundamental requirement of the redox poise of electron donation to N
2
in all legume nodules.
Role of theganSPQABOperon in Degradation of Galactan by Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Watzlawick Hildegard , Morabbi Heravi Kambiz , Altenbuchner Josef
Published: August 2016

Bacillus subtilispossesses different enzymes for the utilization of plant cell wall polysaccharides. This includes a gene cluster containing galactan degradation genes (ganAandganB), two transporter component genes (ganQandganP), and the sugar-binding lipoprotein-encoding geneganS(previously known ascycB). These genes form an operon that is regulated by GanR. The degradation of galactan byB. subtilisbegins with the activity of extracellular GanB. GanB is an endo-β-1,4-galactanase and is a member of glycoside hydrolase (GH) family 53. This enzyme was active on high-molecular-weight arabinose-free galactan and mainly produced galactotetraose as well as galactotriose and galactobiose. These galacto-oligosaccharides may enter the cell via the GanQP transmembrane proteins of the galactan ABC transporter. The specificity of the galactan ABC transporter depends on the sugar-binding lipoprotein, GanS. Purified GanS was shown to bind galactotetraose and galactotriose using thermal shift assay. The energy for this transport is provided by MsmX, an ATP-binding protein. The transported galacto-oligosaccharides are further degraded by GanA. GanA is a β-galactosidase that belongs to GH family 42. The GanA enzyme was able to hydrolyze short-chain β-1,4-galacto-oligosaccharides as well as synthetic β-galactopyranosides into galactose. Thermal shift assay as well as electrophoretic mobility shift assay demonstrated that galactobiose is the inducer of the galactan operon regulated by GanR. DNase I footprinting revealed that the GanR protein binds to an operator overlapping the −35 box of the σA-type promoter of Pgan, which is located upstream ofganS.

IMPORTANCEBacillus subtilisis a Gram-positive soil bacterium that utilizes different types of carbohydrates, such as pectin, as carbon sources. So far, most of the pectin degradation systems and enzymes have been thoroughly studied inB. subtilis. Nevertheless, theB. subtilisutilization system of galactan, which is found as the side chain of the rhamnogalacturonan type I complex in pectin, has remained partially studied. Here, we investigated the galactan utilization system consisting of theganSPQABoperon and its regulatorganR. This study improves our knowledge of the carbohydrate degradation systems ofB. subtilis, especially the pectin degradation systems. Moreover, the galactan-degrading enzymes may be exploited for the production of galacto-oligosaccharides, which are used as prebiotic substances in the food industry.