bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical and structural characterization of CYP109A2, a vitamin D3 25‐hydroxylase from Bacillus megaterium
Authors: Abdulmughni Ammar , Jóźwik Ilona K. , Brill Elisa , Hannemann Frank , Thunnissen Andy‐Mark W. H. , Bernhardt Rita
Published: September 2017

Cytochrome P450 enzymes are increasingly investigated due to their potential application as biocatalysts with high regio‐ and/or stereo‐selectivity and under mild conditions. Vitamin D3 (VD3) metabolites are of pharmaceutical importance and are applied for the treatment of VD3 deficiency and other disorders. However, the chemical synthesis of VD3 derivatives shows low specificity and low yields. In this study, cytochrome P450 CYP109A2 from Bacillus megaterium DSM319 was expressed, purified, and shown to oxidize VD3 with high regio‐selectivity. The in vitro conversion, using cytochrome P450 reductase (BmCPR) and ferredoxin (Fdx2) from the same strain, showed typical Michaelis–Menten reaction kinetics. A whole‐cell system in B. megaterium overexpressing CYP109A2 reached 76 ± 5% conversion after 24 h and allowed to identify the main product by NMR analysis as 25‐hydroxylated VD3. Product yield amounted to 54.9 mg·L−1·day−1, rendering the established whole‐cell system as a highly promising biocatalytic route for the production of this valuable metabolite. The crystal structure of substrate‐free CYP109A2 was determined at 2.7 Å resolution, displaying an open conformation. Structural analysis predicts that CYP109A2 uses a highly similar set of residues for VD3 binding as the related VD3 hydroxylases CYP109E1 from B. megaterium and CYP107BR1 (Vdh) from Pseudonocardia autotrophica. However, the folds and sequences of the BC loops in these three P450s are highly divergent, leading to differences in the shape and apolar/polar surface distribution of their active site pockets, which may account for the observed differences in substrate specificity and the regio‐selectivity of VD3 hydroxylation.

Database

The atomic coordinates and structure factors have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank with accession code 5OFQ (substrate‐free CYP109A2).

Enzymes

Cytochrome P450 monooxygenase CYP109A2, EC 1.14.14.1, UniProt ID: D5DF88, Ferredoxin, UniProt ID: D5DFQ0, cytochrome P450 reductase, EC 1.8.1.2, UniProt ID: D5DGX1.
“Constructive tensions” in resilience research: Critical reflections from a human geography perspective
Authors: Wilson Geoff A.
Published: September 2017

This review paper critically examines four “constructive tensions” in current resilience research, the first three of which are: its association with the roots of the resilience concept in ecological research; issues surrounding resilience as a normative or neutral concept; and confusion about the often interchangeable use of “resilience” and “sustainability” as possibly synonymous terms. The paper refers to these ambiguities as constructive tensions which have sparked fruitful discussions and debates. A fourth constructive tension is directly associated with human geography's engagement with resilience, especially by addressing the relative aspatiality of “mainstream” resilience research, by reinforcing the importance of power and agency in resilience processes, and by arguing that resilience is strongly associated with neoliberal pathways of development. The discussion highlights that much ambiguity remains surrounding some of the key concepts associated with what makes a system “resilient”. This means that philosophical, moral and epistemological differences in natural‐science‐led and social‐science‐led resilience research need to be continuously acknowledged, and that mainstream resilience researchers can greatly benefit from critical insights offered by human geographers.
Anticholinergic burden and dry mouth among Finnish, community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Tiisanoja Antti , Syrjälä Anna‐Maija , Komulainen Kaija , Lampela Pasi , Hartikainen Sirpa , Taipale Heidi , Knuuttila Matti , Ylöstalo Pekka
Published: September 2017

Objective

The aim was to study whether the anticholinergic burden of drugs is related to xerostomia and salivary secretion among community‐dwelling elderly people.

Background

Anticholinergic drugs have been shown to be a risk factor for dry mouth, but little is known about the effects of cumulative exposure to anticholinergic drugs measured by anticholinergic burden on salivary secretion or xerostomia.

Methods

The study population consisted of 152 community‐dwelling, dentate, non‐smoking, older people from the Oral Health GeMS study. The data were collected by interviews and clinical examinations. Anticholinergic burden was determined using the Anticholinergic Drug Scale (ADS). A Poisson regression model with robust error variance was used to estimate relative risks (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI 95%).

Results

Participants with a high‐anticholinergic burden (ADS ≥ 3) were more likely to have xerostomia (RR: 3.17; CI: 1.44‐6.96), low‐unstimulated salivary flow (<0.1 mL/min; RR: 2.31, CI: 1.22‐4.43) and low‐stimulated salivary flow (<1.0 mL/min; RR: 1.50, CI: 0.80‐2.81) compared to reference group (ADS 0). In participants with a moderate anticholinergic burden (ADS 1‐2), all the risk estimates for xerostomia, unstimulated and stimulated salivary secretion varied between 0.55 and 3.13. Additional adjustment for the total number of drugs, antihypertensives and sedative load caused only slight attenuation of the risk estimates.

Conclusion

A high‐anticholinergic burden was associated with low‐unstimulated salivary secretion and xerostomia.
Lipid homeostasis and inflammatory activation are disturbed in classically activated macrophages with peroxisomal β‐oxidation deficiency
Authors: Geric Ivana , Tyurina Yulia Y. , Krysko Olga , Krysko Dmitri V. , De Schryver Evelyn , Kagan Valerian E. , Van Veldhoven Paul P. , Baes Myriam , Verheijden Simon
Published: September 2017

Macrophage activation is characterized by pronounced metabolic adaptation. Classically activated macrophages show decreased rates of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and oxidative phosphorylation and acquire a glycolytic state together with their pro‐inflammatory phenotype. In contrast, alternatively activated macrophages require oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation for their anti‐inflammatory function. Although it is evident that mitochondrial metabolism is regulated during macrophage polarization and essential for macrophage function, little is known on the regulation and role of peroxisomal β‐oxidation during macrophage activation. In this study, we show that peroxisomal β‐oxidation is strongly decreased in classically activated bone‐marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDM) and mildly induced in alternatively activated BMDM. To examine the role of peroxisomal β‐oxidation in macrophages, we used Mfp2−/− BMDM lacking the key enzyme of this pathway. Impairment of peroxisomal β‐oxidation in Mfp2−/− BMDM did not cause lipid accumulation but rather an altered distribution of lipid species with very‐long‐chain fatty acids accumulating in the triglyceride and phospholipid fraction. These lipid alterations in Mfp2−/− macrophages led to decreased inflammatory activation of Mfp2−/− BMDM and peritoneal macrophages evidenced by impaired production of several inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, but did not affect anti‐inflammatory polarization. The disturbed inflammatory responses of Mfp2−/− macrophages did not affect immune cell infiltration, as mice with selective elimination of MFP2 from myeloid cells showed normal monocyte and neutrophil influx upon challenge with zymosan. Together, these data demonstrate that peroxisomal β‐oxidation is involved in fine‐tuning the phenotype of macrophages, probably by influencing the dynamic lipid profile during macrophage polarization.
Investment and Exit under Uncertainty with Utility from Anticipation
Authors: Du Jianjun , Yang Jinqiang , Zou Zhentao
Published: September 2017

This paper explores investment and exit decisions under uncertainty when the entrepreneur has anticipatory utility, which leads to the time‐inconsistency problem. Our model predicts that anticipatory utility has ambiguous effects on the investment strategy, which depends on the form of the project’s payoff. Under a lump‐sum payoff, an entrepreneur with anticipatory utility will under‐invest. However, she prefers over‐investing if the project delivers a flow payoff. Moreover, the model predicts that an entrepreneur with anticipatory utility is more reluctant to abandon an existing project. Finally, our model provides theoretical support and alternative explanation for the empirical evidence that people procrastinate to terminate projects from the perspective of time‐inconsistent preferences.
Microribonucleic acid‐192 as a specific biomarker for the early diagnosis of diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Yang Xinyi , Liu Shuaihui , Zhang Rui , Sun Bei , Zhou Saijun , Chen Rui , Yu Pei
Published: September 2017

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the diagnostic value of microribonucleic acid (miR) as biomarkers in patients with diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Materials and Methods

A total of 230 diabetes mellitus patients and 53 healthy participants were enrolled, and the diabetes mellitus group was further divided into normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria and large amount of albuminuria group. MiRs of serum and urine were quantificated using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. General clinical information was collected and analyzed for the risk factors. Cut‐off values of diagnosis sensitivity were determined by receiver operating characteristic curves and the Youden Index.

Results

Compared with the healthy participants, the expression of miR‐192 in serum decreased, whereas in urine it increased with the progression of DKD. The expression of both serum and urine miR‐126 increased in the diabetes mellitus group, but no significant change was obtained among the DKD groups. The area under the curve receiver operating characteristic of both serum and urine miR‐192 was higher than that of the albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio. Combined detection of urine and serum miR‐192 has a higher specificity and lower misdiagnosis rate.

Conclusions

Both serum and urinary miR‐192 could be a potential biomarker of DKD, playing a crucial role in the prevention and treatment of DKD.
Prolonged azathioprine treatment reduces the need for surgery in early Crohn's disease
Authors: Qiu Yun , Chen Bai‐Li , Feng Rui , Zhang Sheng‐Hong , He Yao , Zeng Zhi‐Rong , Ben‐Horin Shomron , Peyrin‐Biroulet Laurent , Mao Ren , Chen Min‐Hu
Published: September 2017

Background and Aim

Whether an early use of azathioprine (AZA) can alter the natural history of Crohn's disease (CD) remains debated. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of AZA on disease progression in a cohort of patients with early CD.

Methods

This longitudinal cohort study examined patients with early CD defined as disease duration ≤ 18 months and no previous use of disease‐modifying agents according to Paris definition. The primary outcome was the proportion of CD‐related intestinal surgery. Cox regression analysis was performed to identify potential predictive factors of CD progression.

Results

One‐hundred and ninety patients with early CD were enrolled in the study. After a median follow‐up of 57 months (interquartile range, 31.3–76.2), 31 patients underwent abdominal surgeries, 48 patients were hospitalized, and 68 patients experienced clinical flares. The cumulative rate of remaining free of CD‐related bowel surgery, hospitalization, and flare at 5 years on AZA treatment was 0.65, 0.59, and 0.39, respectively. Three independent predictors of CD‐related operations were identified: prior bowel resection (hazard ratio [HR], 9.23; 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.67–23.23), smoker (HR, 4.0; 95% CI 1.38–11.65), and hemoglobin < 110 g/L at the time of initiation of AZA (HR, 4.36; 95% CI 1.80–10.58). Conversely, AZA treatment duration > 36 months (HR, 0.04; 95% CI 0.01–0.15) was associated with reduced CD‐related operations.

Conclusion

Prior bowel resection, smoking, and hemoglobin < 110 g/L at the time of initiation of AZA were risk factors associated with intestinal surgery in patients with early CD. However, prolonged use (≥ 36 months) of AZA was associated with a more favorable disease course of early CD.
Semi‐Parametric Estimation for Non‐Gaussian Non‐Minimum Phase ARMA Models
Authors: Davis Richard A. , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2017

We consider inference for the parameters of general autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models which are possibly non‐causal/non‐invertible (also referred to as non‐minimum phase) and driven by a non‐Gaussian distribution. For non‐minimum phase models, the observations can depend on both the past and future shocks in the system. The non‐Gaussianity constraint is necessary to distinguish between causal‐invertible and non‐causal/non‐invertible models. Many of the existing estimation procedures adopt quasi‐likelihood methods by assuming a non‐Gaussian density function for the noise distribution that is fully known up to a scalar parameter. To relax such distributional restrictions, we borrow ideas from non‐parametric density estimation and propose a semi‐parametric maximum likelihood estimation procedure, in which the noise distribution is projected onto the space of log‐concave measures. We show the maximum likelihood estimators (MLEs) in this semi‐parametric setting are consistent. In fact, the MLE is robust to the misspecification of log‐concavity in cases where the true distribution of the noise is close to its log‐concave projection (Cule and Samworth, 2010; Dümbgen et al., 2011). We derive a lower bound for the best asymptotic variance of regular estimators at rate for autoregressive (AR) models and construct a semi‐parametric efficient one‐step estimator. The estimation procedure is illustrated via a simulation study and an empirical example illustrating the methodology is also provided.
Misery acquaints a man with dangerous bedfellows: But how to get rid of them?
Authors: Lutz Philipp , Nattermann Jacob
Published: September 2017

See Article on Page 1488
Acute on chronic liver failure: Are we ready to predict?
Authors: Ibáñez‐Samaniego Luis , Bañares Rafael
Published: September 2017

See Article on Page 1497
THE STOREROOM AS PROMISE: The Discovery of the Ethnological Museum Depot as an Exhibition Method in the 1970s
Authors: Thiemeyer Thomas
Published: September 2017

This article concerns an exhibition format that I call the depot exhibition. These exhibitions are museum presentations that turn the depot into their subject matter. (“Visible storage” is the most well‐known variant.) While this approach to museum exhibition has a current appeal, especially in German‐speaking countries, it is not new. Its appearance in North America in the 1970s was connected with postcolonial debates and coincided with a controversial sociopolitical discourse in which the concept of the depot promised to solve the central problems of a particular type of museum: the ethnological museum. I argue that the concept of the depot exhibition had an effect on other types of museums because these kinds of exhibitions made promises that concerned museums in general. The concept is at the root of an influential reflexive museum praxis that is distinguished by self‐criticism and the relinquishment of authority from the museum to visitors.
In vitro biofilms and antifungal susceptibility of dermatophyte and non‐dermatophyte moulds involved in foot mycosis
Authors: Toukabri Nourchéne , Corpologno Serena , Bougnoux Marie‐Elisabeth , El Euch Dalenda , Sadfi‐Zouaoui Najla , Simonetti Giovanna
Published: September 2017

Tinea pedis and onychomycosis are among the commonest fungal diseases in the world. Dermatophytes and, less frequently, non‐dermatophyte moulds are aetiological agents of foot mycosis and are capable of forming biofilms. Fungal biofilm has demonstrated increasing drug resistance. This work aims to evaluate, in vitro, the ability to form biofilm and the susceptibility to antifungal drugs of sessile dermatophytes and non‐dermatophyte moulds involved in foot mycosis. Thirty‐six dermatophytes and non‐dermatophyte moulds isolated from Tunisian patients with foot mycoses, and identified with MALDI‐TOF have been tested. MICs of fluconazole, econazole, itraconazole, terbinafine and griseofulvin were carried out using CLSI broth microdilution method. The ability to form biofilm and antifungal activities of drugs against fungal biofilm formation has been quantified by Crystal Violet and Safranin Red staining. Biomass quantification revealed that all species studied were able to form biofilms in vitro after 72 hours. Fluconazole, econazole, itraconazole and terbinafine inhibited fungal growth with MIC values ranging from 0.031 to >64 μg mL−1. The best antifungal activity has been obtained with terbinafine against Fusarium solani. Econazole showed the highest activity against fungal biofilm formation. These findings can help clinicians to develop the appropriate therapy of foot mycosis.
Rosuvastatin pretreatment suppresses distant organ injury following unilateral renal ischemia‐reperfusion in hypertensive Dahl salt‐sensitive rats
Authors: Kanno Makoto , Nakayama Masaaki , Zhu Wan‐Jun , Hayashi Yoshimitsu , Kazama Junichiro J
Published: September 2017

Aim

Ischaemia‐reperfusion (I/R) induces distant organ injury (DOI) via inflammation and oxidative stress. Statins have anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant effects independent of their cholesterol‐lowering properties. To clarify whether statins could suppress DOI, we investigated the effect of rosuvastatin (RO) on the contralateral kidney following unilateral renal I/R.

Methods

Dahl salt‐sensitive rats (6 weeks old) were randomly divided into four groups: sham, sham with RO, I/R, and I/R with RO. All rats were fed a high‐salt (8%) diet for 6 weeks. RO (10 mg/kg per day) was pre‐administered by supplementation to the drinking water for 2 weeks before I/R. The rats then underwent unilateral renal I/R (ischemia for 45 min). Three days after I/R, laboratory data, histological changes and protein expression levels of the contralateral kidney were assessed.

Results

I/R significantly elevated serum creatinine and malondialdehyde levels and induced a significantly higher glomerular sclerosis index and tubular dilation area of the contralateral kidney, with about 2‐fold infiltration of ED‐1‐positive cells. In the I/R group, protein expression of superoxide dismutase (SOD) of the contralateral kidney was reduced to about 50% of the sham group. RO‐pretreatment significantly suppressed all of these changes following I/R.

Conclusion

RO‐pretreatment diminished contralateral kidney injury with the suppression of ED‐1‐positive cell infiltration and SOD reduction after I/R. RO appears to have a protective effect on DOI by its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant effects.
Comparison between small bowel manometric patterns and full‐thickness biopsy histopathology in severe intestinal dysmotility
Authors: Malagelada C. , Karunaratne T. B. , Accarino A. , Cogliandro R. F. , Landolfi S. , Gori A. , Boschetti E. , Malagelada J. R. , Stanghellini V. , Azpiroz F. , De Giorgio R.
Published: September 2017

Background

Intestinal manometry is the current standard for direct evaluation of small bowel dysmotility. Patients with abnormal motility can either be diagnosed of pseudo‐obstruction when there are radiological findings mimicking mechanical intestinal obstruction or of enteric dysmotility when these findings are absent. The aim of the present study was to prospectively compare small bowel manometric abnormalities with histopathological findings in intestinal full‐thickness biopsies in patients with severe dysmotility disorders.

Methods

We investigated 38 patients with intestinal manometry and a subsequent full‐thickness intestinal biopsy. Manometric recordings were read by 4 investigators and a diagnostic consensus was obtained in 35 patients. Histopathological analysis, including specific immunohistochemical techniques of small bowel biopsies was performed and compared to manometric readings.

Key Results

Patients with abnormal intestinal manometry had abnormal histopathological findings in 73% of cases. However, manometric patterns did not match with the specific neuromuscular abnormalities. Among patients with a neuropathic manometry pattern and abnormal histopathology, only 23% had an enteric neuropathy, whereas 62% had neuromuscular inflammation, and 15% an enteric myopathy. On the other hand, patients with a myopathic manometry pattern all had abnormal histopathology, however, none of them with signs of enteric myopathy.

Conclusion & Inferences

Small bowel dysmotility detected by intestinal manometry is often associated with abnormal neuromuscular findings in full‐thickness biopsies. However, there is no correlation between the specific manometric patterns and the histopathological findings.
Eruptive milia during isotretinoin therapy
Authors: Farmer William , Cheng Kyle , Marathe Kalyani
Published: September 2017

Isotretinoin (13‐cis‐retinoic acid) is a synthetic vitamin A derivative that is effective in the treatment of recalcitrant, nodulocystic acne. To our knowledge, there are no reports in the medical literature of milia as a side effect of isotretinoin. We report a case of eruptive facial milia in the setting of isotretinoin treatment for acne.
The Buck Stops with the Education Mayor: Mayoral Control and Local Test Scores in U.S. Urban Mayoral Elections
Authors: Lay J. Celeste , Tyburski Michael D.
Published: September 2017

Several U.S. cities have turned control of their schools from elected boards to the mayor. Advocates of mayoral control have argued that this structure allows voters to hold the mayor directly accountable for the performance of local schools. Now that public schools have to report their test scores each year, it is possible for voters to attribute responsibility for test scores. This article analyzes survey data from 16 cities in the United States that have been matched with data on test scores. We find that, in general, test score changes are not associated with support for incumbent mayors, except in districts with mayoral control, where voters reward incumbents when test scores rise. Further, voters' beliefs about local schools condition their support for the incumbent. In cities with mayoral control, voters who evaluate schools positively reward mayors while voters who believe their schools are poor are not swayed by this positive information.

Related Articles

Ertas, Nevbahar. 2015. “.” Politcs & Policy 43 (): 426‐451. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/polp.12120/abstract

Roch, Christine, and
Amanda Wilsker. 2010. “.” Politics & Policy 38 (): 1187‐1210. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2010.00274.x/abstract

Webber, David J. 2010. “.” Politics & Policy 38 (): 81‐95. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747-1346.2009.00229.x/full

Related Media

. 2017. “Make the Mayor Accountable for the Schools.” February 23. http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/opinion/editorial/bs-ed-city-schools-20170223-story.html

Fertig, Beth. 2013. “After 12 Years of Bloomberg, Data Reigns in the Schools.” WNYC. http://www.wnyc.org/story/303900-bloombergs-schools-legacy-use-data/
Effects of Consumer‐to‐Consumer Product Sharing on Distribution Channel
Authors: Tian Lin , Jiang Baojun
Published: September 2017

In recent years, mobile communication technologies and online sharing platforms have made collaborative consumption among consumers a major trend in the economy. Consumers buy many products but end up not fully utilizing them. A product owner's self‐use values can differ over time, and in a period of low self‐use value, the owner may rent out her product in a product‐sharing market. This study develops an analytical framework to study how consumer‐to‐consumer product sharing affects the distribution channel, where the manufacturer has to build its production capacity beforehand and the retailer sells the product to forward‐looking consumers. Our analysis reveals that there exists a threshold for the capacity cost coefficient, above which product sharing will increase the manufacturer's optimal capacity and below which it will reduce the manufacturer's optimal capacity. We find that the sharing market tends to increase the retailer's share of the gross profit margin in the channel. Furthermore, the existence of the sharing market tends to benefit the firms when capacity is relatively costly to build, but it is more likely to increase the retailer's profit than the manufacturer's profit, that is, product sharing can sometimes benefit the downstream retailer at the expense of the upstream manufacturer.
Optimality of (s, S) Inventory Policies under Renewal Demand and General Cost Structures
Authors: Perera Sandun , Janakiraman Ganesh , Niu Shun‐Chen
Published: September 2017

We study a single‐stage, continuous‐time inventory model where unit‐sized demands arrive according to a renewal process and show that an ( s,  S) policy is optimal under minimal assumptions on the ordering/procurement and holding/backorder cost functions. To our knowledge, the derivation of almost all existing ( s,  S)‐optimality results for stochastic inventory models assume that the ordering cost is composed of a fixed setup cost and a proportional variable cost; in contrast, our formulation allows virtually any reasonable ordering‐cost structure. Thus, our paper demonstrates that ( s,  S)‐optimality actually holds in an important, primitive stochastic setting for all other practically interesting ordering cost structures such as well‐known quantity discount schemes (e.g., all‐units, incremental and truckload), multiple setup costs, supplier‐imposed size constraints (e.g., batch‐ordering and minimum‐order‐quantity), arbitrary increasing and concave cost, as well as any variants of these. It is noteworthy that our proof only relies on elementary arguments.
The impact of leadership influence tactics and employee openness toward others on innovation performance
Authors: Rangus Kaja , Černe Matej
Published: September 2017

Despite the vital importance of leadership, employees, and their social interactions in the open‐innovation process, there is scarce evidence on the influence and connectedness of different sub‐firm levels related to open innovation. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of leadership influence tactics and employee openness toward others on innovation performance at the individual and team levels. We applied a multilevel analysis on a sample of 85 employees and their 15 direct supervisors/team leaders. We find that leaders’ building open‐innovation coalitions exhibits a positive cross‐level relationship with employee openness toward others and individual‐level innovative behavior, and also moderates the link between the latter two constructs. Additionally, the leaders’ building open‐innovation coalitions variable is positively related to the team‐level scope of innovations and the team‐level innovation implementation phase.
Predictors and moderators of quality of life in caregivers of amputee patients by type 2 diabetes
Authors: Alves Costa Maria Suely , Pereira Maria Graça
Published: September 2017

Background

The amputation of a foot or a leg is one of the complications caused by diabetes that creates fear. After the amputation, the patient becomes dependent on a caregiver, who is often not prepared for this new phase of life. Knowing the factors that influence care delivery in caregivers of amputee type 2 diabetes patients is important from an heuristic point of view, since very few studies have focused on this population.

Objectives

This study analysed the predictors and moderators of quality of life, in caregivers of amputee patients due to type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This study has a cross‐sectional design. All ethical standards were followed in the conduct of this study. The sample comprised 101 caregivers who answered the following instruments: Carer's Assessment of Managing Index, Burden Assessment Scale, Depression Anxiety Stress Scales, Revised Impact of Events Scale, Family Assessment Device, Family Disruption from Illness Scale and the Short Form Health Survey‐36.

Results

The practice of physical activity, lower burden, better family functioning and less traumatic symptoms were predictors of better mental quality of life. Having no chronic disease and less physical symptoms predicted better physical quality of life. Duration of care moderated the relationship between traumatic symptoms and mental quality of life, but not with physical quality of life. Receiving help in caregiving moderated the relationship between traumatic symptoms and mental quality of life. The limitations of this study include the exclusive use of self‐report instruments and the fact that the caregivers who have participated in this study were those who accompanied the patient to the hospital.

Conclusion

In order to promote physical quality of life, future intervention programmes should consider the presence of chronic disease in the caregiver and the duration of care, as well as the caregivers’ physical symptoms.
Northern marine transportation corridors: Creation and analysis of northern marine traffic routes in Canadian waters
Authors: Chénier René , Abado Loretta , Sabourin Olivier , Tardif Laurent
Published: September 2017

The concept of the Northern Marine Transportation Corridors (NMTC) initiative was developed under the Government of Canada World‐Class Tanker Safety System Initiative (WCTSS). The NMTC is an interdepartmental Arctic initiative within the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), through the Canadian Coast Guard (CCG) and the Canadian Hydrographic Service (CHS), in collaboration with Transport Canada (TC). The NMTC initiative was developed to strengthen the safety of marine navigation in the Arctic, and to offer an efficient planning guide for present and future Arctic investments. Transportation corridors identified through this initiative will provide the Government of Canada the framework needed to better prioritize and deliver on its programs and services, including: nautical charts and products; aids to navigation; icebreaking services; and marine safety regulations. The corridors were generated and analyzed with a Geographic Information System (GIS) using two main data sources: the Automated Identification System (AIS) and CHS's nautical charts and publications. The geographic extent of the NMTC is defined as the Northern Canada Vessel Traffic Service Zone (NORDREG Zone) and the Mackenzie River. With close to 4 million km2 of water in the Arctic and 162,000 km of coastline, surveying the Arctic to modern standards represents an enormous challenge to CHS. By adopting a corridor‐based approach, CHS and other government programs can prioritize their efforts on 12% of the Canadian Arctic waters. CHS currently has 32% of the NMTC adequately surveyed, with an additional 3% surveyed to modern standards.
Validity of historical volunteered geographic information: Evaluating citizen data for mapping historical geographic phenomena
Authors: Zhang Guiming , Zhu A‐Xing , Huang Zhi‐Pang , Ren Guopeng , Qin Cheng‐Zhi , Xiao Wen
Published: September 2017

Studies on volunteered geographic information (VGI) have focused on examining its validity to reveal geographic phenomena in relatively recent periods. Empirical evaluation of the validity of VGI to reveal geographic phenomena in historical periods (e.g., decades ago) is lacking, although such evaluation is desirable for assessing the possibility of broadening the temporal scope of VGI applications. This article presents an evaluation of the validity of VGI to reveal historical geographic phenomena through a citizen data‐based habitat suitability mapping case study. Citizen data (i.e., sightings) of the black‐and‐white snub‐nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus bieti) were elicited from local residents through three‐dimensional (3D) geovisualization interviews in Yunnan, China. The validity of the elicited sightings to reveal the historical R. bieti distribution was evaluated through habitat suitability mapping using the citizen data in historical periods. The results of controlled experiments demonstrated that suitability maps predicted using the historical citizen data had a consistent spatial pattern (correlation above 0.60) that reflects the R. bieti distribution (Boyce index around 0.90) in areas free of significant environmental change across historical periods. This in turn suggests that citizen data have validity for mapping historical geographic phenomena. It provides supporting empirical evidence for potentially broadening the temporal scope of VGI applications.
Effect of distal ulnar ostectomy on carpal joint stability during weight bearing in the dog
Authors: Amsellem Pierre M. , Young Aisha N. , Muirhead Tammy L. , Pack LeeAnn , Moak Peter , Matthews Andrea R. , Marcellin‐Little Denis J.
Published: September 2017

Objective

To assess the influence of a 50% distal ulnectomy on mediolateral carpal stability in the dog.

Study design

Canine cadaveric study.

Sample population

Seven canine thoracic limbs

Methods

Thoracic limbs were placed in a jig to mimic weight bearing with a load representing 30% of body weight. Carpal extension angle was standardized at 190° ± 5°. Frontal plane carpal angles were measured with the limb loaded on craniocaudal radiographs before and after ulnectomy. Valgus and varus stress radiographs with the limb loaded were acquired before and after ulnectomy. The limbs were palpated and were subjectively graded for valgus or varus instability by 2 investigators before and after ulnectomy.

Results

Mean (±SD) valgus angulation increased after ulnectomy (2.1° ± 1.7°;P = .017; CI95 = 0.5°‐3.7°) when the limb was loaded without valgus or varus stress applied. Mean valgus angulation increased after ulnectomy (2.7° ± 2.8°;P = .032; CI95 = −0.2°‐5.5°) when valgus stress was applied to the loaded limb. Varus angulation was unchanged after ulnectomy (0.6° ± 4.6°;P = .383; CI95 = −4.2°‐5.3°) when varus stress was applied to the loaded limb. Palpation detected increased valgus score after ulnectomy.

Conclusion

Distal ulnectomy with excision of the lateral styloid process induces a slight increase in valgus in canine cadaver carpi. The clinical consequences of that valgus on carpal function and health should be assessed in clinical patients.
Video‐assisted microwave ablation for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion in a dog with appendicular osteosarcoma and hypertrophic osteopathy
Authors: Mazzaccari Kaitlyn , Boston Sarah E. , Toskich Beau B. , Bowles Kristina , Case J. Brad
Published: September 2017

Objective

To describe video‐assisted microwave ablation (VAMA) for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion secondary to right forelimb osteosarcoma in a dog.

Study design

Case report.

Animals

A 10‐year‐old female spayed mixed breed dog with a metastatic lung lesion secondary to appendicular osteosarcoma.

Methods

An osteosarcoma of the right distal scapula and proximal humerus that was suspected to be a radiation‐induced osteosarcoma was treated with limb amputation and carboplatin chemotherapy. The patient developed pulmonary metastatic lesions and hypertrophic osteopathy (HO). VAMA of a metastatic lesion in the right caudal lung lobe was performed 227 days after amputation. The procedure was performed without complication.

Results

Follow‐up information with the referring veterinarian 40 days after VAMA indicated that the patient was stable and that the clinical signs of HO had resolved. Thoracic radiographs taken by the referring veterinarian (RDVM) at monthly intervals showed that the previously treated metastatic lesion was stable. At 134 days from VAMA, the patient presented to the RDVM for lethargy and dyspnea and was transferred to an emergency clinic. The patient arrested and died 136 days from the VAMA procedure while hospitalized. A postmortem was not performed.

Conclusion

VAMA for pulmonary metastatic lesions is technically feasible and allows for the treatment of symptoms associated with HO and minimally invasive management of pulmonary metastases in the case reported.
Could recent increases in atmospheric CO2 have acted as a selection factor in Avena fatua populations? A case study of cultivated and wild oat competition
Authors: Ziska L H
Published: September 2017

Projected increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration [CO2] may lead to differential selection and competition between weeds and crops. Yet, the current level of atmospheric [CO2] already reflects a rapid rise (~25%) from mid‐20th century levels. To assess whether this increase could have already resulted in differential selection between weeds and crops, two temporally distinct populations of Avena fatua (wild oat) from the same geographic location, one from the 1960s (WOold) and one from 2014 (WOnew), were grown with and without a cultivated oat (CO) line, Clintland 64 (Avena sativa) at current and mid‐20th century [CO2] levels (ca 320 and 402 μmol mol−1 respectively). Monocultures of each WO population differed in their response to recent increases in atmospheric [CO2], with WOnew showing a significantly higher response for all vegetative parameters relative to WOold. Assessment of competitive outcomes indicated that at 315 μmol mol−1 cultivated oat was at a competitive advantage relative to either A. fatua population for leaf area and total above‐ground biomass. However, at current levels of CO2, an overall increase in WOnew competitive ability was observed relative to the cultivated oat line. Overall, these differences are consistent with, but not conclusive for, improved evolutionary fitness and increased early competitive ability of A. fatua relative to cultivated oat as a function of the recent increase in atmospheric [CO2]. While additional empirical studies are needed, these preliminary results indicate that weeds may be adapting rapidly to rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Encouraging experience using multi‐transgenic xenografts in a pig‐to‐baboon cardiac xenotransplantation model
Authors: Chan Joshua L. , Singh Avneesh K. , Corcoran Philip C. , Thomas Marvin L. , Lewis Billeta GT , Ayares David L. , Vaught Todd , Horvath Keith A. , Mohiuddin Muhammad M.
Published: September 2017

Background

Innovations in transgenic technology have facilitated improved xenograft survival. Additional gene expression appears to be necessary to overcome the remaining immune and biologic incompatibilities. We report for the first time the novel use of six‐gene modifications within a pig‐to‐baboon cardiac xenotransplantation model.

Methods

Baboons (8‐15 kg) underwent heterotopic cardiac transplantation using xenografts obtained from genetically engineered pigs. Along with previously described modifications (GTKO, hCD46), additional expression of human transgenes for thromboregulation (endothelial protein C receptor, tissue factor pathway inhibitor, thrombomodulin), complement inhibition (decay accelerating factor), and cellular immune suppression (hCD39, hCD47) was used. Immunosuppression consisted of targeted T‐cell and B‐cell depletion and conventional anti‐rejection agents.

Results

Heterotopic cardiac transplantations were performed without complication. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry on donor biopsies confirmed transgenic phenotype. In contrast to the prior three‐gene generation, significant coagulopathy or consumptive thrombocytopenia has not been observed in the six‐gene cohort. As a result, these recipients have experienced decreased bleeding‐related complications. Pro‐inflammatory responses also appear to be mitigated based on cytokine analysis. Baboons survived the critical 30‐day post‐operative period when mortality has historically been highest, with no evidence of graft rejection.

Conclusions

The inclusion of additional human genes in genetically engineered pigs appears to confer superior xenograft outcomes. Introduction of these genes has not been associated with adverse outcomes. This multifactorial approach to genetic engineering furthers the prospect of long‐term cardiac xenograft survival and subsequent clinical application.
Hyperbaric oxygenation and 20‐hydroxyeicosatetreanoic acid inhibition reduce stroke volume in female diabetic Sprague–Dawley rats
Authors: Mišir Mihael , Renić Marija , Novak Sanja , Mihalj Martina , Ćosić Anita , Vesel Monika , Drenjančević Ines
Published: September 2017

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Is there a beneficial effect and what are the mechanisms of acute and multiple hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO2) exposures on the outcome of cerebral tissue injury induced by a transient middle cerebral artery occlusion model in diabetic female rats? Are 20‐hydroxyeicosatetreanoic acid and epoxyeicosatrienoic acids involved?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Equal reduction of cortical and total infarct size in rats treated with HBO2 and HET0016 (20‐hydroxyeicosatetreanoic acid production inhibitor) and significant mRNA upregulation of epoxyeicosatrienoic acid‐producing enzymes (Cyp2J3 and Cyp2C11) in treated groups suggest that HBO2 and HET0016 are highly effective stroke treatments and that cytochrome P450 metabolites are involved in this therapeutic effect.

We evaluated the effects of acute and repetitive hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO2), 20‐hydroxyeicosatetreanoic acid (20‐HETE) inhibition by N‐hydroxy‐N′‐(4‐butyl‐2methylphenyl)‐formamidine (HET0016) and their combination on experimental stroke outcomes. Streptozotocin‐induced type 1 diabetic Sprague–Dawley female rats (n = 42; n = 7 per group), were subjected to 30 min of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (t‐MCAO)–reperfusion and divided into the following groups: (1) control group, without treatment; and groups exposed to: (2) HBO2; (3) multiple HBO2 (HBO2 immediately and second exposure 12 h after t‐MCAO); (4) HET0016 pretreatment (1 mg kg−1, 3 days before t‐MCAO) combined with HBO2 after t‐MCAO; (5) HET0016 treatment (1 h before, during and for 6 h after t‐MCAO); and (6) HET0016 treatment followed by HBO2 after t‐MCAO. Messenger RNA expression of CYP2J3, CYP2C11, CYP4A1, endothelial nitric oxide synthase and epoxide hydrolase 2 was determined by real‐time qPCR. Cortical infarct size and total infarct size were equally and significantly reduced in HBO2‐ and HET0016‐treated rats. Combined treatment with HET0016 and HBO2 provided no significant additive effect compared with HET0016 treatment only. Messenger RNA of Cyp2J3 was significantly increased in all study groups, and mRNA of Cyp2C11 was significantly increased in the multiple HBO2 group and the HET0016 treatment followed by HBO2 group, compared with the control group. Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase was significantly increased after HBO2 treatments, and expression of epoxide hydrolase 2 was increased in all groups compared with the control group. In diabetic female Sprague–Dawley rats, HBO2 and HET0016 are highly effective stroke treatments, suggesting the involvement of cytochrome P450 metabolites and the NO pathway in this therapeutic effect.
Characteristics of bioelectrical activity of oviducts and uterus during early pregnancy in sows recorded by telemetry method
Authors: Pawlinski Bartosz , Domino Malgorzata , Zabielski Romuald , Siewruk Katarzyna , Polanska‐Plachta Malgorzata , Gajewski Zdzislaw
Published: September 2017

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

The aim of present study was to record and analyse the myoelectrical activity in the female pig reproductive tract (uterus and oviduct) during early pregnancy.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Understanding the contractile activity of the uterus and oviducts is indispensable for understanding the physiological mechanisms as well as all irregularities associated with the period of conception and early pregnancy.

The aim of the present study was to record the myoelectrical activity of the reproductive tract in sows during the oestrous phase and early pregnancy via a telemetry recording system. In a total of eight non‐pregnant pigs, the bioelectrical activity was recorded through three silicone electrodes sutured on the oviduct (isthmus and ampulla) and the uterine horn. Blood samples were collected to monitor the concentrations of progesterone (P4) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The oestrous cycle was synchronized with equine chorionic gonadotrophin (eCG) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), and the animals were subjected to artificial insemination. Analysis of the EMG activity of the oviduct and uterus in the oestrous phase and in early stages of pregnancy suggests explicitly that telemetry could enable in vivo assessment of myoelectrical activity of parts of the reproductive system in sows. Off‐line analysis of the duration of EMG activity bursts in the uterus, isthmus and ampulla were significantly higher during early pregnancy (phases II and III) than in the oestrous phase. The EMG signals demonstrated low mean amplitudes of activity in the oviduct and uterus during early pregnancy (phases I–III). Significant differences between the root mean square signals were observed in the isthmus and ampulla both during oestrus and in early pregnancy (phase I; P < 0.01). During the oestrous phase, the P4 concentration was estimated at <1 ng ml−1, whereas the LH concentration was >4 ng ml−1. In contrast, during early pregnancy, the P4 and LH concentrations were estimated at >4 and <1 ng ml−1, respectively.
Anodic porous alumina with square holes through lattice conversion of naturally occurring ordered structures
Authors: Kondo Toshiaki , Miyazaki Hayato , Yanagishita Takashi , Masuda Hideki
Published: September 2017

Anodic porous alumina with square cells and square holes was fabricated through the conversion of the triangular lattice of naturally occurring anodic porous alumina to a square lattice. A pattern of a triangular lattice obtained from an ordered anodic porous alumina lattice was converted to a pattern of a square lattice by modifying the ratio of the lattice through the anisotropic deformation of a polymer sheet with a triangular pattern transferred from porous alumina. The obtained pattern of a square lattice on the polymer sheet was transferred to a metal mold using a template process, and the pretexturing of Al using the obtained mold generated anodic porous alumina with square cells and square holes. The process allows the fabrication of anodic porous alumina with square cells and square holes without the use of a lithographic technique. The obtained porous alumina was applied to the fabrication of a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrate with a square Au nanodot array.
Equations for normal-mode statistics of sound scattering by a rough elastic boundary in an underwater waveguide, including backscattering
Authors: Morozov Andrey K. , Colosi John A.
Published: September 2017

Underwater sound scattering by a rough sea surface, ice, or a rough elastic bottom is studied. The study includes both the scattering from the rough boundary and the elastic effects in the solid layer. A coupled mode matrix is approximated by a linear function of one random perturbation parameter such as the ice-thickness or a perturbation of the surface position. A full two-way coupled mode solution is used to derive the stochastic differential equation for the second order statistics in a Markov approximation.
Maintaining intelligibility at high intensities with arrays of subcritical width speech bands and interpolated noise
Authors: Bashford James A. , Warren Richard M. , Lenz Peter W.
Published: September 2017

Speech intelligibility normally declines at high intensities, but this “rollover” effect decreases when steep filtering reduces sentences to an array of rectangular subcritical bands. The present study found that interpolating low intensity noise between the speech bands further decreases rollover, supporting the hypothesis that rollover is normally reduced by lateral inhibition of input from rate-saturated auditory nerve fibers. With noise also present within the speech (a 15 dB signal-to-noise ratio) an array of 6%-wide speech bands with interpolated noise was found to be 9% more intelligible at 100 dB than a spectrally continuous band of speech covering the same frequency range.