bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical and sensory properties of dry-cured ham with dietary processed-sulfur supplementation
Authors: Kim Ji-Han , Noh Ha-Young , Kim Gyum-Heon , Ahn Su-Jin , Hong Go-Eun , Kim Soo-Ki , Lee Chi-Ho
Published: February 2016

The aim of the present study was to explore the changes in physicochemical and sensory properties of dry-cured ham (from pigs that received a dietary supplement of processed sulfur, PS), as a function of the level of dietary PS. The following three groups were tested: (1) commercial basal feed (control, CON); (2) 0.1% of PS in the control diet (T1); and (3) 0.3% of PS in the control diet (T2). Dry-cured ham from T2 pigs had a higher moisture content and lower fat concentration than did that from the control pigs. Dry-cured ham T1 and T2 samples showed excellent lipid oxidation stability during storage and showed positive aroma scores in comparison with CON samples. Nonetheless, the total microbial plate count of dry-cured ham T1 (or T2) samples was significantly lower than that of CON samples, and volatile basic nitrogen of T1 (or T2) samples was higher than that of CON samples (P < 0.05). Concentrations of total free amino acids and sulfur-containing amino acids of ham T1 or T2 samples were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those of control samples. Concentrations of polyunsaturated fatty acids of ham T1 and T2 samples were significantly higher than that of CON samples, whereas concentration of saturated fatty acids of CON samples was significantly higher. Thus, dry-cured ham from pigs receiving 0.3% PS in the diet showed the lowest fat concentration, increased nutrient quality and extended shelf life.
Microbiological quality and sensory evaluation of new cured products obtained from sheep and goat meat
Authors: Tolentino Georgina S. , Estevinho Leticia M. , Pascoal Ananias , Rodrigues Sandra S. , Teixeira Alfredo J.
Published: February 2016

The present work aims to study the effect of species and seasoning time on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory characteristics of cured legs of sheep and goats. Three cure periods were used: two for sheep and one for goat legs. Legs of lamb were cured for 7 and 8 months whereas legs of goat were cured for 8 months only. Samples were evaluated regarding pH, water activity and indicators of food microbial quality and safety. A trained panel carried out the sensory analysis, with aroma, texture, appearance and taste being the evaluated parameters. Significant differences were detected between the amount of aerobic mesophiles of the products cured during 7 months and the sheep legs cured during 8 months. Moulds and yeasts were between 1.81 × 106 ± 1.73 × 106 and 3.97 × 106 ± 5.45 × 106 colony-forming units/g, whereas total coliforms varied from 2.80 × 102 ± 4.13 × 102 to 1.31 × 104 ± 2.39 × 104. All samples were negative for toxigenic species. Concerning sensory analysis, hardness and taste persistence were the attributes that presented the highest and the lowest discriminative power, respectively. In general, the panel was able to characterise and distinguish the samples. The cured legs of goats were characterised as harder and as less succulent than those obtained from sheep. Sheep meat with larger time of cure was the brightest, whereas the one with a smaller time of cure was the most succulent. However, goat meat presented higher values of rancid and acid flavour. Sheep meat submitted to longer processing presented the most intense flavour and sheep meat with an inferior cure period presented the lowest intensity in all flavour attributes. This paper describes, for the first time in Portugal, the production and characterisation of cured legs of sheep and goats as a strategy to enhance economic value to good quality products obtained from animals of second category.
An integrated sensory, consumer and olfactometry study evaluating the effects of rearing system and diet on flavour characteristics of Australian lamb
Authors: Frank Damian , Raeside Margaret , Behrendt Ralph , Krishnamurthy Raju , Piyasiri Udayasika , Rose Gavin , Watkins Peter , Warner Robyn
Published: February 2016

Producing lamb with good eating quality – flavour, tenderness and juiciness – is essential for consumer satisfaction. Forages such as lucerne and plantain can play an important role in sustainable lamb production; however, it is important to ensure that these feeds do not introduce undesirable flavours. We evaluated the potential for backgrounding (post-weaning) and finishing diets (11 weeks pre-slaughter) to affect lamb eating quality. Lambs were backgrounded on either (1) a combination of three cultivars of perennial ryegrass or (2) a combination of lucerne, ryegrass and fescue and then finished (76 days) on one of three forages; (1) perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), (2) lucerne (Medicago sativa) or (3) plantain (Plantago lanceolota). After slaughter, striploin (M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum) and topside (M. semimembranosus) muscles were removed. Grilled striploins were subjected to consumer acceptance studies and quantitative descriptive analysis by a trained sensory panel. Grilled meat from lambs finished on lucerne and plantain was equally or more acceptable than on ryegrass, with no negative impacts on flavour. The backgrounding system affected flavour attributes as well as tenderness. Grilled lamb volatiles were comprehensively characterised by gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry-olfactometry. Specific flavour-related sensory attributes were modelled using semi-quantitative volatile data. Targeted analysis of branch-chained fatty acids, 4-methylphenol and 3-methylindole indicated no significant effects of backgrounding regime or finishing feed. We conclude that neither lucerne nor plantain had negative impacts on lamb flavour although different combinations of backgrounding and finishing feeds may affect lamb tenderness.
Resilience in farm animals: biology, management, breeding and implications for animal welfare
Authors: Colditz Ian G. , Hine Brad C.
Published: February 2016

A capacity for the animal to recover quickly from the impact of physical and social stressors and disease challenges is likely to improve evolutionary fitness of wild species and welfare and performance of farm animals. Salience and valence of stimuli sensed through neurosensors, chemosensors and immunosensors are perceived and integrated centrally to generate emotions and engage physiological, behavioural, immune, cognitive and morphological responses that defend against noxious challenges. These responses can be refined through experience to provide anticipatory and learned reactions at lower cost than innate less-specific reactions. Influences of behaviour type, coping style, and affective state and the relationships between immune responsiveness, disease resistance and resilience are reviewed. We define resilience as the capacity of animals to cope with short-term perturbations in their environment and return rapidly to their pre-challenge status. It is manifested in response to episodic, sporadic or situation-specific attributes of the environment and can be optimised via facultative learning by the individual. It is a comparative measure of differences between individuals in the outcomes that follow exposure to potentially adverse situations. In contrast, robustness is the capacity to maintain productivity in a wide range of environments without compromising reproduction, health and wellbeing. Robustness is manifested in response to persistent or cyclical attributes of the environment and is effected via activity of innate regulatory pathways. We suggest that for farm animals, husbandry practices that incorporate physical and social stressors and interactions with humans such as weaning, change of housing, and introduction to the milking parlour can be used to characterise resilience phenotypes. In these settings, resilience is likely to be more readily identified through the rate of return of variables to pre-challenge or normal status rather than through measuring the activity of diverse stress response and adaptation mechanisms. Our strategy for phenotyping resilience of sheep and cattle during weaning is described. Opportunities are examined to increase resilience through genetic selection and through improved management practices that provide emotional and cognitive enrichment and stress inoculation.
Reasons for keeping dairy goats in Tanzania, and possible goals for a sustainable breeding program
Authors: Nziku Z. C. , Kifaro G. C. , Eik L. O. , Steine T. , Ådnøy T.
Published: February 2016

This research aimed at describing reasons for keeping dairy goats in Tanzania, and possible goals for a sustainable breeding program. Three districts, each representing a unique dairy goat breed population, were selected for the study. The Saanen, Toggenburg and Norwegian were the main dairy goat breeds in Arumeru, Babati, and Mvomero districts, respectively. A total of 125 dairy goat farmers were interviewed. A holistic approach of both quantitative and qualitative research methods was used to study the perceptions of farmers. More milk yield, sale of breeding stock and manure were the highest ranked reasons for keeping dairy goats. The reasons were coherent to the production systems. The three most preferred traits for improvement were milk yield, adaptability and twinning ability. These preferences were absolutely important in the context of the referred production system. Selection of replacement stock, animal identification and performance recording were the main challenges emphasised by farmers. The present study views these challenges as a result of knowledge gaps in animal breeding that require solutions. Based on result findings it is suggested that the milk yield and survival traits should be the primary dairy goat breeding goals. Generally, there are possibilities for developing sustainable dairy goat breeding programs in the surveyed areas given relevant breeding goals are incorporated. The design of simple and manageable dairy goat breeding schemes is necessary.
Durum wheat quality traits affected by mycorrhizal inoculation, water availability and atmospheric CO2 concentration
Authors: Goicoechea N. , Bettoni M. M. , Fuertes-Mendizábal T. , González-Murua C. , Aranjuelo I.
Published: February 2016

Predicted reduced precipitation, enhanced evaporative demand and increasing CO2 in the atmosphere will strongly influence wheat production. The association of wheat with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) improves growth under stressful conditions. Our objective was to test the influence of mycorrhizal inoculation on yield, and accumulation of macro- and micro-nutrients and gliadins in grains of durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) plants grown under different CO2 concentrations and water regimes. The main factors of the experimental design were mycorrhizal inoculation (inoculated or non-inoculated plants); atmospheric CO2 concentration (ambient, ACO2, or elevated, ECO2); and water regime (optimal or restricted water regime). At ACO2, the simultaneous application of AMF and water deficit decreased the number of seeds per spike without affecting the biomass of grains, and grains accumulated higher contents of copper, iron, manganese, zinc and gliadins. The opposite effect was observed with ECO2 where, regardless of mycorrhizal and water treatment factors, a general depletion of contents of micro- and macro-nutrients and gliadins was detected. Whereas mycorrhizal inoculation together with drought applied to plants cultivated at ACO2 improved wheat grain quality parameters, under ECO2, mycorrhization did not ameliorate grain quality parameters detected in plants that produced the largest grain dry matter values.
QTLs for ascochyta blight resistance in faba bean (Vicia faba L.): validation in field and controlled conditions
Authors: Atienza S. G. , Palomino C. , Gutiérrez N. , Alfaro C. M. , Rubiales D. , Torres A. M. , Ávila C. M.
Published: February 2016

Ascochyta blight is an important disease of faba bean (Vicia faba L.). Yield losses can be as high as 90% and losses of 35–40% are common. The line 29H is one of the most resistant accessions to the pathogen (Ascochyta fabae Speg.) ever described. In this work, we aimed to validate across generations the main quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for ascochyta blight resistance identified in the cross 29H × Vf136 and to test their stability under field conditions. QTLs located on chromosomes II and III have been consistently identified in the recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of this cross, in both controlled (growth chamber) and field conditions and, thus they are good targets for breeding. In addition, a new QTL for disease severity on pods has been located on chromosome VI, but in this case, further validation is still required.
A synteny-based approach was used to compare our results with previous QTL works dealing with this pathogen. Our results suggest that the QTL located on chromosome II, named Af2, is the same one reported by other researchers, although it is likely that the donors of resistance differ in the allele conferring the resistance. By contrast, the location of Af3 on chromosome III does not overlap with the position of Af1 reported by other authors, suggesting that Af3 may be an additional source of resistance to ascochyta blight.
The potential distribution of the woody weed Calotropis procera (Aiton) W.T. Aiton (Asclepiadaceae) in Australia
Authors: Menge Enock O. , Stobo-Wilson Alyson , Oliveira Sofia L. J. , Lawes Michael J.
Published: February 2016

The potential spread of any invasive plant is a central concern in weed risk assessment. Calotropis procera is wind dispersed and forms extensive monospecific stands that reduce the productivity of pastoral land, but its potential distribution and drivers of its spread are not well known. Using maximum entropy methodology, we modelled current and future potential distributions of C. procera in Australia. Occurrence data (n = 5976 presence records) were collated from regional databases and a field survey. Of a set of ‘independent’ environmental correlates, those that best accounted for the observed distribution of C. procera in Australia were distance (km) to roads, average annual rainfall (mm), mean temperature (°C), average wind speed (km/h), beef density and vegetation type, in that order of importance. Current and potential distribution of C. procera was best explained by interactions between anthropogenic disturbance and climatic factors, all underpinned by species characteristics. Models were based on a grid cell size of 5 km × 5 km and model performance was good (mean AUC = 0.916; s.d. = 0.014; AUC = area under the curve; perfect fit = 1). The model showed that C. procera has not saturated its current potential distribution. Models of future spread derived from climate change projections, based on global circulation models in the ‘Representative Concentration Pathway 4.5 emissions scenario for 2035’, show the area suitable for C. procera will increase, increasing the risk the weed poses. Range expansion will occur into all three states surrounding the Northern Territory, but mostly into the north-eastern border regions of Western Australia and north-western Queensland. Joint management of rubber bush at a regional scale across jurisdictions, is urgently advised to avoid future spread of rubber bush and further reductions in pastoral productivity.
Targeted axonal import (TAxI) peptide delivers functional proteins into spinal cord motor neurons after peripheral administration
Authors: Sellers Drew L. , Bergen Jamie M. , Johnson Russell N. , Back Heidi , Ravits John M. , Horner Philip J. , Pun Suzie H.
Published: February 2016

Significance

The delivery of drugs into the central nervous system is limited by the blood–brain barrier. Consequently, there exists an unmet need to develop technologies with the ability to deliver biologic drugs (such as peptides, proteins, or nucleic acids) into the brain or spinal cord via peripheral administration routes. In this paper, a screen of recombinant bacteriophage identified a peptide, targeted axonal import (TAxI), that is able to deliver protein cargo into spinal cord motor neurons after intramuscular injection by a retrograde transport mechanism. The demonstration of a nonviral-mediated delivery system demonstrates the clinical potential of this technology to develop powerful therapeutic tools to treat motor neuron diseases.
Characterization and small-molecule stabilization of the multisite tandem binding between 14-3-3 and the R domain of CFTR
Authors: Stevers Loes M. , Lam Chan V. , Leysen Seppe F. R. , Meijer Femke A. , van Scheppingen Daphne S. , de Vries Rens M. J. M. , Carlile Graeme W. , Milroy Lech G. , Thomas David Y. , Brunsveld Luc , Ottmann Christian
Published: February 2016

Significance

It has been shown that 14-3-3 proteins increase trafficking of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) to the plasma membrane by binding to its regulatory (R) domain. This paper contains a detailed characterization of the 14-3-3/CFTR interaction, showing that multiple phosphorylated binding sites in the CFTR R-domain are necessary for significant binding with 14-3-3. We find that one of these binding sites serves as an anchor, while surrounding weaker sites enhance the interaction. Furthermore, we show the druggability of this interaction using natural-product fusicoccin-A, which stabilizes the 14-3-3/CFTR interaction by selectively modifying a weaker binding site. This mechanism of action can serve as a model for the development of new trafficking corrector molecules to treat cystic fibrosis.
Expression of factor H binding protein in meningococcal strains can vary at least 15-fold and is genetically determined
Authors: Biagini Massimiliano , Spinsanti Marco , De Angelis Gabriella , Tomei Sara , Ferlenghi Ilaria , Scarselli Maria , Rigat Fabio , Messuti Nicola , Biolchi Alessia , Muzzi Alessandro , Anderloni Giulia , Brunelli Brunella , Cartocci Elena , Buricchi Francesca , Tani Chiara , Stella Maria , Moschioni Monica , Del Tordello Elena , Colaprico Annalisa , Savino Silvana , Giuliani Marzia M. , Delany Isabel , Pizza Mariagrazia , Costantino Paolo , Norais Nathalie , Rappuoli Rino , Masignani Vega
Published: February 2016

Significance

Complement is the main line of defense against bacterial pathogens; however, the molecular mechanisms triggering killing are largely unknown. Factor H binding protein (fHbp) is a component of two licensed vaccines against serogroup B meningococcus and a key target of complement-mediated bacterial killing. Selected reaction monitoring was used for the absolute quantification of fHbp on invasive meningococcal strains, showing that expression among strains can vary at least 15-fold and a minimum of 757 molecules separated by not more than 130 nm are required to engage C1q and kill the bacteria. Furthermore, the amount of fHbp is genetically determined by the sequence of the promoter region and correlated with the bactericidal activity. These findings increase the understanding of complement-mediated killing and vaccine protection.
Natural morphosyntax
Authors: Rondal Jean A.
Published: February 2016

Fluent speakers do not appear to have conscious knowledge of the linguistic categories and declarative rules that linguists use to describe grammar and that most psycholinguists have adopted for explaining language functioning. The implication derived in this paper is that these categories and rules are deprived of psychological reality. It is proposed that a psychologically real morphosyntax is concerned with sentence surface. The pragmatic framework and the semantic relational matrix at the onset of sentence production are converted directly into syntagmatic patterns, flexibly distributed along the sentence line. These patterns are reflected in probabilistic associations between words and sequences of words. Natural morphosyntax is learned incidentally through implicit procedural learning. Children extract frequent syntagmatic patterns from adapted adult input. The resulting knowledge is stored in procedural memory. The cortico-striatal -cerebellar system of the brain has the computational power necessary to deal with sentence sequential patterning and associative regularities.
Cognitive model of GHEIRAT in Persian
Authors: Bakhtiar Mohsen
Published: February 2016

GHEIRAT seems to be a complex emotion in Iranian men and women with a variety of contextual meanings including, jealousy, chivalry, courage, and protecting one’snâmus‘female family members’. GHEIRAT may be defined as a monitoring device or alarm system in the mind of Iranians. The cognitive linguistic analysis of the conceptual domains interacting with GHEIRAT indicates that the GHEIRAT concept operates to protect one’s values against threat, insult, and injury, provide assistance to the Other, and aid the Self in accomplishing goals as a supplementary force. Moreover, the paper comes to the conclusion that in Iranian culture, the cultural model of GHEIRAT is largely constituted by conceptual metaphors (THE OTHER IS A POTENTIAL OPPONENT, GHEIRAT IS A PHYSICAL SUPPLEMENTARY FORCE), conceptual metonymy (CAUSE FOR EFFECT) and related key concepts (ÂBERU ‘face’, NÂMUS ‘one’s female family members and the sanctity associated with them’, MAHRAMIAT ‘the legitimate physical and emotional intimacy between men and women’). Furthermore, based on Kövecses’s (2000) account of emotion concepts, it is revealed that GHEIRAT fulfills its functions indirectly through acting as a cause for other emotions and feelings such as ANGER, HATRED, JEALOUSY, and SELFLESSNESS.
Abstract and concrete representations in structure-mapping and class-inclusion
Authors: Khatin Zadeh Omid , Vahdat Sedigheh
Published: February 2016

This article presents an Abstract Algebraic framework within which two major theories of metaphor comprehension, the class-inclusion and structure-mapping, are incorporated. Looking at Gentner’s structure-mapping model from this perspective, this article suggests that any comparison between two systems of relations is made by the mediation of an abstract system of relations rather than by a direct comparison between two concrete systems of relations. Regarding class-inclusion model, it is proposed that the class in which the topic is directly included is the class of abstract representation (deep representation) of vehicle. In this way, two levels of meaning are defined for the vehicle of a metaphor. The first level is the abstract representation or deep representation, which includes one or at most several salient semantic features. This is the metaphorical meaning of vehicle, which might be shared by a set of words with different degrees of typicality. The second level of meaning is the surface representation or literal meaning. This level includes a large number of semantic features. Therefore, metaphorical meaning includes one or at most several very salient semantic aspects, while literal meaning includes a large number of semantic features.
Patterns of Innovation Transfer and the Spread of Copper Metallurgy to Central Europe
Authors: Scharl Silviane
Published: February 2016

Innovation transfer can be described as a process of communication and integration. Its success depends on two conditions: first, the information flow itself and, second, the acceptance and implementation of this information. In this article, it is assumed that both aspects are influenced by certain factors that can stimulate or constrain the transfer of innovation. This hypothesis is tested in a case study concerning the spread of copper metallurgy in Central Europe. A contextual analysis shows that its transmission can be reconstructed as a slow integrational process. Further, the spread of copper metallurgy occurred in fits and starts, with repeated breaks that, in some cases, lasted for several hundred years. These halts are key for analysing the mechanisms of innovation transfer. In this context, the role of those variables which influenced this transfer will be analysed.
The nuclear basket mediates perinuclear mRNA scanning in budding yeast
Authors: Saroufim Mark-Albert , Bensidoun Pierre , Raymond Pascal , Rahman Samir , Krause Matthew R. , Oeffinger Marlene , Zenklusen Daniel
Published: February 2016

After synthesis and transit through the nucleus, messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are exported to the cytoplasm through the nuclear pore complex (NPC). At the NPC, messenger ribonucleoproteins (mRNPs) first encounter the nuclear basket where mRNP rearrangements are thought to allow access to the transport channel. Here, we use single mRNA resolution live cell microscopy and subdiffraction particle tracking to follow individual mRNAs on their path toward the cytoplasm. We show that when reaching the nuclear periphery, RNAs are not immediately exported but scan along the nuclear periphery, likely to find a nuclear pore allowing export. Deletion or mutation of the nuclear basket proteins MLP1/2 or the mRNA binding protein Nab2 changes the scanning behavior of mRNPs at the nuclear periphery, shortens residency time at nuclear pores, and results in frequent release of mRNAs back into the nucleoplasm. These observations suggest a role for the nuclear basket in providing an interaction platform that keeps RNAs at the periphery, possibly to allow mRNP rearrangements before export.
Ataxin-3 phosphorylation decreases neuronal defects in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 models
Authors: Matos Carlos A. , Nóbrega Clévio , Louros Susana R. , Almeida Bruno , Ferreiro Elisabete , Valero Jorge , Pereira de Almeida Luís , Macedo-Ribeiro Sandra , Carvalho Ana Luísa
Published: February 2016

Different neurodegenerative diseases are caused by aberrant elongation of repeated glutamine sequences normally found in particular human proteins. Although the proteins involved are ubiquitously distributed in human tissues, toxicity targets only defined neuronal populations. Changes caused by an expanded polyglutamine protein are possibly influenced by endogenous cellular mechanisms, which may be harnessed to produce neuroprotection. Here, we show that ataxin-3, the protein involved in spinocerebellar ataxia type 3, also known as Machado-Joseph disease, causes dendritic and synapse loss in cultured neurons when expanded. We report that S12 of ataxin-3 is phosphorylated in neurons and that mutating this residue so as to mimic a constitutive phosphorylated state counters the neuromorphologic defects observed. In rats stereotaxically injected with expanded ataxin-3–encoding lentiviral vectors, mutation of serine 12 reduces aggregation, neuronal loss, and synapse loss. Our results suggest that S12 plays a role in the pathogenic pathways mediated by polyglutamine-expanded ataxin-3 and that phosphorylation of this residue protects against toxicity.
Posttranslational marks control architectural and functional plasticity of the nuclear pore complex basket
Authors: Niño Carlos A. , Guet David , Gay Alexandre , Brutus Sergine , Jourquin Frédéric , Mendiratta Shweta , Salamero Jean , Géli Vincent , Dargemont Catherine
Published: February 2016

The nuclear pore complex (NPC) serves as both the unique gate between the nucleus and the cytoplasm and a major platform that coordinates nucleocytoplasmic exchanges, gene expression, and genome integrity. To understand how the NPC integrates these functional constraints, we dissected here the posttranslational modifications of the nuclear basket protein Nup60 and analyzed how they intervene to control the plasticity of the NPC. Combined approaches highlight the role of monoubiquitylation in regulating the association dynamics of Nup60 and its partner, Nup2, with the NPC through an interaction with Nup84, a component of the Y complex. Although major nuclear transport routes are not regulated by Nup60 modifications, monoubiquitylation of Nup60 is stimulated upon genotoxic stress and regulates the DNA-damage response and telomere repair. Together, these data reveal an original mechanism contributing to the plasticity of the NPC at a molecular-organization and functional level.
Modulation of FAK and Src adhesion signaling occurs independently of adhesion complex composition
Authors: Horton Edward R. , Humphries Jonathan D. , Stutchbury Ben , Jacquemet Guillaume , Ballestrem Christoph , Barry Simon T. , Humphries Martin J.
Published: February 2016

Integrin adhesion complexes (IACs) form mechanochemical connections between the extracellular matrix and actin cytoskeleton and mediate phenotypic responses via posttranslational modifications. Here, we investigate the modularity and robustness of the IAC network to pharmacological perturbation of the key IAC signaling components focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src. FAK inhibition using AZ13256675 blocked FAKY397 phosphorylation but did not alter IAC composition, as reported by mass spectrometry. IAC composition was also insensitive to Src inhibition using AZD0530 alone or in combination with FAK inhibition. In contrast, kinase inhibition substantially reduced phosphorylation within IACs, cell migration and proliferation. Furthermore using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, we found that FAK inhibition increased the exchange rate of a phosphotyrosine (pY) reporter (dSH2) at IACs. These data demonstrate that kinase-dependent signal propagation through IACs is independent of gross changes in IAC composition. Together, these findings demonstrate a general separation between the composition of IACs and their ability to relay pY-dependent signals.
EHBP1L1 coordinates Rab8 and Bin1 to regulate apical-directed transport in polarized epithelial cells
Authors: Nakajo Atsuhiro , Yoshimura Shin-ichiro , Togawa Hiroko , Kunii Masataka , Iwano Tomohiko , Izumi Ayaka , Noguchi Yuria , Watanabe Ayako , Goto Ayako , Sato Toshiro , Harada Akihiro
Published: February 2016

The highly conserved Rab guanosine triphosphatase (GTPase) Rab8 plays a role in exocytosis toward the polarized plasma membrane in eukaryotic cells. In murine Rab8-deficient small intestine cells, apical proteins are missorted into lysosomes. In this study, we identified a novel Rab8-interacting protein complex containing an EH domain–binding protein 1–like 1 (EHBP1L1), Bin1/amphiphysin II, and dynamin. Biochemical analyses showed that EHBP1L1 directly bound to GTP-loaded Rab8 and Bin1. The spatial dependency of these complexes at the endocytic recycling compartment (ERC) was demonstrated through overexpression and knockdown experiments. EHBP1L1- or Bin1-depleted or dynamin-inhibited small intestine organoids significantly accumulated apical membrane proteins but not basolateral membrane proteins in lysosomes. Furthermore, in EHBP1L1-deficient mice, small intestine cells displayed truncated and sparse microvilli, suggesting that EHBP1L1 maintains the apical plasma membrane by regulating apical transport. In summary, our data demonstrate that EHBP1L1 links Rab8 and the Bin1–dynamin complex, which generates membrane curvature and excises the vesicle at the ERC for apical transport.
mRNAs scan themselves out
Authors: Short Ben
Published: February 2016

Two single-molecule imaging studies reveal new details of how mRNAs are exported from the nucleus.
Acute Cryptococcal Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome in a Patient on Natalizumab
Authors: Gundacker Nathan D. , Jordan Stephen J. , Jones Benjamin A. , Drwiega Joseph C. , Pappas Peter G.
Published: February 2016

Presented is the first case of acute immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS)-associated cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in a patient on natalizumab for multiple sclerosis. The patient developed acute cerebral edema after initiation of amphotericin B. We propose several mechanisms that explain the acuity of IRIS in this specific patient population and suggest possible therapies.
A Missed Summer Wave of the 1918–1919 Influenza Pandemic: Evidence From Household Surveys in the United States and Norway
Authors: Mamelund Svenn-Erik , Haneberg Bjørn , Mjaaland Siri
Published: February 2016

Background.  Reanalysis of influenza survey data from 1918 to 1919 was done to obtain new insights into the geographic and host factors responsible for the various waves.

Methods.  We analyzed the age- and sex-specific influenza morbidity, fatality, and mortality for the city of Baltimore and smaller towns and rural areas of Maryland and the city of Bergen (Norway), using survey data. The Maryland surveys captured the 1918 fall wave, whereas the Bergen survey captured 3 waves during 1918–1919.

Results.  Morbidity in rural areas of Maryland was higher than in the city of Baltimore during the fall of 1918, that was almost equal to that in Bergen during the summer of 1918. In Bergen, the morbidity in the fall was only half of that in the summer, with more females than males just above the age of 20 falling ill, as seen in both regions of Maryland. In contrast, more males than females fell ill during the summer wave in Bergen. Individuals <40 years had the highest morbidity, whereas school-aged children had the lowest fatality and mortality.

Conclusion.  A previously unrecognized pandemic summer wave may have hit the 2 regions of Maryland in 1918.
Randomized Sham-controlled Double-Blind Multicenter Clinical Trial to Ascertain the Effect of Percutaneous Radiofrequency Treatment for Sacroiliac Joint Pain
Authors: van Tilburg Cornelis W.J. , Schuurmans Fleur A. , Stronks Dirk L. , Groeneweg Johannes G. , Huygen Frank J.P.M.
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

To investigate the effect of a percutaneous radiofrequency (RF) heat lesion compared with a sham procedure, applied to the lateral branches of L5, S1, S2, S3, and S4 nerve roots.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients aged 18 years and above with a medical history and physical examination suggestive for sacroiliac joint pain and a reduction of 2 or more on a numerical rating scale (NRS, 0 to 10) after a sacroiliac joint test block were included in this study. Treatment group: percutaneous RF heat lesion at the lateral branches of S1, S2, S3, and S4 nerve roots and the posterior ramus dorsalis of L5; sham group: same procedure as the treatment group except for the RF heat lesion. Primary outcome measure: pain reduction (NRS). Secondary outcome measure: Global Perceived Effect.

Results:

No statistically significant differences in pain level over time between the groups (Group×Period) (F
1,58=0.353; P=0.56) nor within the treatment Group (F
1,58=0.212; P=0.65) were found. The Period factor, however, yielded a significant difference (F
1,58=61.67; P<0.001), that is, when pooled together the mean pain level of the patients was significantly reduced at T1 compared with T0. In the crossover group, 42.1% experienced a reduction in NRS of 2 or more at 1 month (P=0.65). No statistically significant difference in satisfaction over time between the groups was found (F
1,50=2.1; P=0.15). The independent factors Group (F
1,50=2.02; P=0.16) and Period (F
1,50=0.95; P=0.33) also showed no statistically significant difference. The same applies to recovery: no statistically significant Group×Period effect (F
1,51=0.09; P=0.77) was found, neither an effect of Group (F
1,51=0.004; P=0.95) nor of Period (F
1,51=0.27; P=0.60).

Discussion:

The hypothesis of no difference in pain reduction or in Global Perceived Effect between the treatment and sham group cannot be rejected.

Level of Evidence:

Level 1A.
Efficacy of Cabbage Leaf Wraps in the Treatment of Symptomatic Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Authors: Lauche Romy , Gräf Nadine , Cramer Holger , Al-Abtah Jallal , Dobos Gustav , Saha Felix J.
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is one of the most common chronic diseases among older adults. This study aimed to test the effects of cabbage leaf wraps (CLWs) in the treatment of symptomatic OA.

Methods:

Patients with OA of the knee at stages II to III (Kellgren-Lawrence) were randomly assigned to 4 weeks of treatment with CLWs (daily for at least 2h), topical pain gel (TPG) (10 mg diclofenac/g, at least once daily), or usual care (UC). The primary outcome measure was pain intensity (VAS) after 4 weeks. Secondary outcomes included functional disability Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), quality of life (SF-36), self-efficacy (Arthritis Self-Efficacy Scale-D), physical function (30 s Chair Stand Test), pressure pain sensitivity (PPT), satisfaction, and safety after 4 and 12 weeks.

Results:

In total, 81 patients were included in this study (42 women, 65.9±10.3 y). After 4 weeks patients in the CLW group reported significantly less pain compared with those in the UC group (difference, −12.1; 95% [confidence interval] CI, −23.1, −1.0; P=0.033) but not when compared with the TPG group (difference, −8.6; 95% CI, −21.5, 4.4; P=0.190). Significant effects were also found in WOMAC, SF-36, 30-second Chair Stand Test, and PPT scores in the CLW group compared with the UC group. Compared with TPG, effects from CLW were found for WOMAC after 4 weeks and for quality of life after 12 weeks. Patients were satisfied with both active interventions, and except for 2 adverse events in both groups the applications were well tolerated.

Conclusions:

CLWs are more effective for knee OA than UC, but not compared with diclofenac gel. Therefore, they might be recommended for patients with OA of the knee. Further research is warranted.
Differing Psychologically Derived Clusters in People With Chronic Low Back Pain are Associated With Different Multidimensional Profiles
Authors: Rabey Martin , Smith Anne , Beales Darren , Slater Helen , O’Sullivan Peter
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

To explore the existence of subgroups in a cohort with chronic low back pain (n=294) based upon data from multiple psychological questionnaires, and profile subgroups on data from multiple dimensions.

Methods:

Psychological questionnaires considered as indicator variables entered into latent class analysis included: Depression, Anxiety, Stress scales, Thought Suppression and Behavioural Endurance subscales (Avoidance Endurance questionnaire), Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (short-form), Pain Catastrophising Scale, Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, and Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. Multidimensional profiling of derived clusters included: demographics, pain characteristics, pain responses to movement, behaviors associated with pain, body perception, pain sensitivity, and health and lifestyle factors.

Results:

Three clusters were derived. Cluster 1 (23.5%) was characterized by low Cognitive and Affective Questionnaire scores, with the exception of fear-avoidance beliefs. Cluster 2 (58.8%) was characterized by relatively elevated thought suppression, catastrophizing, and fear-avoidance beliefs, but lower pain self-efficacy, depression, anxiety, and stress. Cluster 3 (17.7%) had the highest scores across cognitive and affective questionnaires.

Cluster 1 reported significantly lower pain intensity and bothersomeness than other clusters. Disability, stressful life events, and low back region perceptual distortion increased progressively from cluster 1 to cluster 3, whereas mindfulness progressively decreased. Clusters 2 and 3 had more people with an increase in pain following repeated forward and backward spinal bending, and more people with increasing pain following bending, than cluster 1. Cluster 3 had significantly greater lumbar pressure pain sensitivity, more undiagnosed comorbid symptoms, and more widespread pain than other clusters.

Discussion:

Clinical implications relating to presentations of each cluster are postulated.
The Effect of Medicinal Cannabis on Pain and Quality-of-Life Outcomes in Chronic Pain
Authors: Haroutounian Simon , Ratz Yael , Ginosar Yehuda , Furmanov Karina , Saifi Fayez , Meidan Ronit , Davidson Elyad
Published: February 2016

Objectives:

The objective of this prospective, open-label study was to determine the long-term effect of medicinal cannabis treatment on pain and functional outcomes in participants with treatment-resistant chronic pain.

Patients and Methods:

The primary outcome was the change in the pain symptom score on the S-TOPS (Treatment Outcomes in Pain Survey—Short Form) questionnaire at the 6-month follow-up in an intent-to-treat population. Secondary outcomes included the change in S-TOPS physical, social, and emotional disability scales, the pain severity, and pain interference on the Brief Pain Inventory, sleep problems, and the change in opioid consumption.

Results:

A total of 274 participants were approved for treatment; complete baseline data were available for 206 (intent-to-treat), and complete follow-up data for 176 participants. At follow-up, the pain symptom score improved from median 83.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 79.2-87.5) to 75.0 (95% CI, 70.8-79.2) (P<0.001). The pain severity score (7.50 [95% CI, 6.75-7.75] to 6.25 [95% CI, 5.75-6.75]) and the pain interference score (8.14 [95% CI, 7.28-8.43] to 6.71 [95% CI, 6.14-7.14]) improved (both P<0.001), together with most social and emotional disability scores. Opioid consumption at follow-up decreased by 44% (P<0.001). Serious adverse effects led to treatment discontinuation in 2 participants.

Discussion:

The treatment of chronic pain with medicinal cannabis in this open-label, prospective cohort resulted in improved pain and functional outcomes, and a significant reduction in opioid use. Results suggest long-term benefit of cannabis treatment in this group of patients, but the study’s noncontrolled nature should be considered when extrapolating the results.
Movement Along the Spine Induced by Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Related Electrode Positioning
Authors: Hoebink Eric A. , Journée Henricus L. , de Kleuver Marinus , Berends Hanneke , Racz Ilona , van Hal Chantal
Published: February 2016

Study Design.

A prospective, nonrandomized cohort study.

Objective.

To describe a technique quantifying movement induced by transcranial electrical stimulation (TES) induced movement in relation to the positioning of electrodes during spinal deformity surgery.

Summary of Background Data.

TES induced movement may cause injuries and delay surgical procedures. When TES movements are evoked, muscles other than those being monitored any adjustments in stimulation protocols and electrode positioning may be expected to minimize movement whereas preserving quality of monitoring. In this study, seismic evoked responses (SER) induced through TES were studied at different electrode positions.

Methods.

Intraoperative TES-motor evoked potentials were carried out in 12 patients undergoing corrective spine surgery. Accelerometer transducers recorded SER in two directions at four different locations of the spine for TES-electrode montage groups Cz-Fz and C3-C4. A paired t test was used to compare the means of SER and the relationship between movement and TES electrode positioning.

Results.

SERs were strongest in the upper body. All mean SERs values for the Cz-Fz group were up to five times larger when compared with the C3-C4 group. However, there were no differences between the C3-C4 and Cz-Fz groups in the lower body locations. Both electrode montage groups showed a gradual stepwise reduction in all mean SER values along the spine from the cranial to caudal region. For the upper body locations, there were no significant associations between SER and both montages; in contrast, a significant association SER was demonstrated in the lumbar region.

Conclusion.

At supramaximum levels, movements resulting from multipulse TES are likely caused by relatively strong contractions from muscles in the neck resulting from direct extracranial stimulation. When interchanging electrode montages in individual cases, the movement in the neck may become reduced. At lumbar levels transcranial evoked muscle contractions dominate movement in the surgically exposed areas.

Level of Evidence: 4
How Effective is Physical Therapy for Common Low Back Pain Diagnoses?
Authors: Eleswarapu Ananth S. , Divi Srikanth N. , Dirschl Douglas R. , Mok James M. , Stout Christopher , Lee Michael J.
Published: February 2016

Study Design.

A retrospective review.

Objective.

The aim of this study is to evaluate whether the treatment of low back pain with physical therapy results in clinically significant improvements in patient-reported pain and functional outcomes.

Summary of Background Data.

Low back pain is a major cause of morbidity and disability in health care. Previous studies have found poor efficacy for surgery in the absence of specific indications. A variety of nonoperative treatments are available; however, there is scant evidence to guide the practitioner as to the efficacy of these treatments.

Methods.

Four thousand five hundred ninety-seven patients who underwent physical therapy for the nonoperative treatment of low back pain were included. The primary outcome measures were pre-and post-treatment scores on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) during activity, and NPRS during rest. Previously published thresholds for minimal clinically important difference (MCID) were used to determine the proportion of patients meeting MCID for each of our outcomes. Patients with starting values below the MCID for each variable were excluded from analysis. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine patient risk factors predictive of treatment failure.

Results.

About 28.5% of patients met the MCID for improvement in ODI. Presence of night symptoms, obesity, and smoking were predictors of treatment failure for ODI. Fifty-nine percent of patients met the MCID for improvement in resting NPRS, with a history of venous thromboembolism, night symptoms, psychiatric disease, workers’ compensation status, smoking, and obesity predictive of treatment failure. Sixty percent of patients met the MCID for improvement in activity NPRS, with night symptoms, workers’ compensation status, and smoking predictive of treatment failure.

Conclusion.

We observed that a substantial percentage of the population did not meet MCID for pain and function following treatment of low back pain with physical therapy. Common risk factors for treatment failure included smoking and presence of night symptoms.

Level of Evidence: 4
Surgical Outcomes and Prognostic Factors in Patients With Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma-associated Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression
Authors: Han Shuai , Yang Xinghai , Jiang Dongjie , Zhou Wang , Liu Tielong , Yan Wangjun , Wang Ting , Cheng Li , Xiao Jianru
Published: February 2016

Study Design.

A retrospective study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to discuss the factors that may affect surgical outcomes of patient with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)-associated metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC).

Summary of Background Data.

DLBCL in the spine is rare and minimal information has been published in the literature regarding this subject. Although DLBCL is highly sensitive to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, surgical decompression is recommended in the treatment of DLBCL-associated MSCC. However, the prognostic factors affecting surgical outcomes of patients with DLBCL-associated MSCC remain unknown.

Methods.

We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the impact of surgical decompression on recovery from neurological deficit caused by DLBCL-associated MSCC. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify prognostic factors for overall survival of spinal DLBCL. The survival rate was estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences were analyzed by the log-rank test. Factors with P values of 0.1 or less were subjected to multivariate analysis for survival rate by multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis.

Results.

A total of 37 patients with spinal DLBCL from 2003 to 2014 were included in the study. International Prognostic Index (IPI) (0–1/2–5), duration of preoperative symptoms (≤2m/>2m), and lactate dehydrogenase (normal/abnormal) were suggested as the potential prognostic factors through univariate analysis. However, as they were submitted to the multivariate Cox regression model, only IPI and duration of preoperative symptoms were found as independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion.

Surgical decompression improves recovery from neurological deficit. Patient IPI score plays an important role in decision making for surgical intervention, as it affects the length of survival and functional outcome. Patients with duration of preoperative symptoms no more than 2 months confer a very poor prognosis.

Level of Evidence: 4