bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Tulamoeba bucina n. sp., an Extremely Halotolerant Amoeboflagellate Heterolobosean Belonging to the Tulamoeba–Pleurostomum Clade (Tulamoebidae n. fam.)
Authors: Kirby William A. , Tikhonenkov Denis V. , Mylnikov Alexandre P. , Janouškovec Jan , Lax Gordon , Simpson Alastair G. B.
Published: September 2014

Most protozoans that have been cultivated recently from high salinity waters appear to be obligate halophiles. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that these species mostly represent independent lineages. Here, we report the cultivation, morphological characterization, and phylogenetic analysis of two strains (XLG1 and HLM‐8) of a new extremely halotolerant heterolobosean amoeboflagellate. This species is closely related to the obligate halophiles Tulamoeba peronaphora and Pleurostomum flabellatum, and more specifically to the former. Like Tulamoeba, the new species has a monopodial limax amoeba stage, however, its cyst stage lacks an intrusive pore plug. The flagellate stage bears a combination of a planar spiral feeding apparatus and unequal heterodynamic flagella that discriminates it from described Pleurostomum species. Strain XLG1 grows at salinities from 35‰ to 225‰. This degree of halotolerance is uncommon in protozoa, as most species showing growth in seawater are unable to grow at 200‰ salinity. The unrelatedness of most halophilic protozoa suggested that independent colonization of the hypersaline environment is more common than speciation within it. However, this study supports the idea that the Tulamoeba–Pleurostomum clade underwent an adaptive radiation within the hypersaline environment. A new species Tulamoeba bucina n. sp. is described, with Tulamoebidae n. fam. proposed for the Tulamoeba–Pleurostomum clade.
Application of Salt Solution and Vacuum Packaging in Extending the Shelf Life of Cooked Fish Balls for Home and Retail Uses
Authors: Noordin Wan Norhana Md. , Shunmugam Nannthini , Huda Nurul
Published: September 2014

The effectiveness of salt solution and vacuum packaging in extending the shelf life of cooked fish balls was evaluated. Freshly produced fish balls were bought and divided into five groups (one group was air packaged [control]; three groups immersed in salt solutions [2.5, 5.0, 10.0%]; one group, vacuum packaged) and stored at 4 ± 1C for 14 days. Changes in aerobic bacterial counts, pH, texture and sensory characteristics were evaluated and shelf life was determined based on bacterial counts and sensory evaluation. A microbiological shelf life extension of 6 days was obtained for vacuum packaged and 4 days for 10% salt‐immersed fish balls compared with control's shelf life (<3 days). Based on sensory analysis, vacuum packaging and 2.5% salt‐immersed fish balls extended the shelf life of fish balls by 6 days compared with control's shelf life (<9 days). There was no significant (P > 0.05) changes in the pH values for treated fish ball samples.

Practical Applications

A limited shelf life of 4–5 days at 5C and 2 days without refrigeration is one of the major problems faced by the chilled fish ball industry especially the small‐ to medium‐scale industries. Limited shelf life is also a problem to the consumers. As a product with high water content and rich in protein, fish balls are prone to the growth of microorganisms especially if stored at room temperature as what is commonly practiced at retail. Although freezing the fish balls enables them to last longer, the consumers and retailers might not prefer that as it tends to affect the texture and freshness of the fish ball. Thus, the development of readily available, inexpensive, simple and practical treatments to extend the shelf life of chilled fish ball at home and retail is much needed.
Contribution of cod liver oil‐related nutrients (vitamins A, D, E and eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) to daily nutrient intake and their associations with plasma concentrations in the EPIC‐Norfolk cohort
Authors: Lentjes M. A. H. , Mulligan A. A. , Welch A. A. , Bhaniani A. , Luben R. N. , Khaw K.–T.
Published: September 2014

Background

Total nutrient intake (TNI) is intake from food and supplements. This provides an assessment of nutrient adequacy and the prevalence of excessive intake, as well as the response with respect to biomarkers. Cod liver oil (CLO) is the most frequently consumed supplement in the UK, containing nutrients that might have varying influences on health. We calculated TNI for vitamins A, D and E, as well as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and assessed associations with the respective blood concentrations.

Methods

Seven‐day diet diaries and blood samples were taken from two subsets of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC‐Norfolk) cohort (age range 39–79 years; n = 1400 for vitamin D; n = 6656 for remaining nutrients). TNI was calculated for the subgroups: nonsupplement users, those consuming the nutrient in supplement form and those consuming a supplement without this nutrient.

Results

CLO‐related nutrients were supplemented by 15%–33%, which approximately doubled median intakes. Almost everyone in the supplement + vitamin A group reached the estimated average requirement; however, guideline levels were likely to be exceeded. Partial correlations between intake of vitamins A and D and biomarkers were low and modestly strengthened by the inclusion of supplement sources (correlation = 0.01–0.13). Correlations between biomarker and TNI of vitamin E and EPA+DHA were in the range 0.40–0.46; however, vitamin E exceeding food intake resulted in attenuated coefficients. Linear associations between food or TNI EPA+DHA and plasma were weak but consistent across subgroups.

Conclusions

CLO‐related nutrients contribute substantially to nutrient intake, with a risk of over‐consumption. Apart from EPA+DHA, biomarker data suggest that CLO‐related nutrients in supplements are not linearly associated with vitamin status.
Blue‐light‐induced rapid chloroplast de‐anchoring in Vallisneria epidermal cells
Authors: Sakai Yuuki , Inoue Shin‐Ichiro , Harada Akiko , Shimazaki Ken‐Ichiro , Takagi Shingo
Published: September 2014

In the outer periclinal cytoplasm of leaf epidermal cells of an aquatic angiosperm Vallisneria, blue light induces “chloroplast de‐anchoring”, a rapid decline in the resistance of chloroplasts against centrifugal force. Chloroplast de‐anchoring is known induced within 1 min of irradiation with high‐fluence‐rate blue light specifically, preceding the commencement of chloroplasts migration toward the anticlinal cytoplasm. However, its regulatory mechanism has remained elusive, although pharmacological analysis suggested that a calcium release from intracellular calcium stores is necessary for the response. In search of the responsible photoreceptors, immunoblotting analysis using antibodies against phototropins demonstrated that cross‐reactive polypeptides of 120‐kDa exist in the plasma‐membrane fraction prepared from the leaves. In vitro phosphorylation analysis revealed that 120‐kDa polypeptides were phosphorylated by exposure to blue light in a fluence‐dependent manner. The blue‐light‐induced phosphorylation activity was sensitive to a Ser/Thr kinase inhibitor, staurosporine, and unusually was retained at a high level for a long time in darkness. Furthermore, phototropin gene homologs (Vallisneria PHOTOTROPIN1 and PHOTOTROPIN2) expressed in leaves were isolated. We propose that calcium‐regulated chloroplast de‐anchoring, possibly mediated by phototropins, is an initial process of the blue‐light‐induced avoidance response of chloroplasts in Vallisneria.
Harmonic demodulation and minimum enhancement factors in field‐enhanced near‐field optical microscopy
Authors: SCARPETTINI A.F. , BRAGAS A.V.
Published: September 2014

Field‐enhanced scanning optical microscopy relies on the design and fabrication of plasmonic probes which had to provide optical and chemical contrast at the nanoscale. In order to do so, the scattering containing the near‐field information recorded in a field‐enhanced scanning optical microscopy experiment, has to surpass the background light, always present due to multiple interferences between the macroscopic probe and sample. In this work, we show that when the probe–sample distance is modulated with very low amplitude, the higher the harmonic demodulation is, the better the ratio between the near‐field signal and the interferometric background results. The choice of working at a given n harmonic is dictated by the experiment when the signal at the n + 1 harmonic goes below the experimental noise. We demonstrate that the optical contrast comes from the nth derivative of the near‐field scattering, amplified by the interferometric background. By modelling the far and near field we calculate the probe–sample approach curves, which fit very well the experimental ones. After taking a great amount of experimental data for different probes and samples, we conclude with a table of the minimum enhancement factors needed to have optical contrast with field‐enhanced scanning optical microscopy.
Insulin induces phosphorylation of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR1, reversed by ZIP, and over‐expression of Protein Kinase M zeta, reversed by amyloid beta
Authors: Adzovic Linda , Domenici Luciano
Published: September 2014

Insulin receptor (IR) in the brain plays a role in synaptic plasticity and cognitive functions. Phosphorylation of α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methylisoxazole‐4‐propionic acid (AMPA) receptors GluR1 subunit at Serine 831 is regulated by calcium–calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II and protein kinase C that underlie long‐term potentiation and learning/memory. Recent studies have shown that the novel Protein Kinase M zeta (PKMζ) underlies synaptic plasticity and may regulate AMPAr. In this study, we show that insulin induces phosphorylation of Serine 831 GluR1 subunit of AMPAr and induces over‐expression of PKMζ; pre‐treatment with either the IR inhibitor 3‐Bromo‐5‐t‐butyl‐4‐hydroxy‐benzylidenemalonitrile (AG1024) or PKMζ inhibitor protein kinase C zeta pseudo‐substrate inhibitor returned the phosphorylation value of GluR1 to control level. Amyloid beta (Aβ) peptide in the form of oligomers interferes with IR signaling. Pre‐treating neuronal cultures with Aβ following incubation with insulin, we found a reduction of insulin‐dependent PKMζ over‐expression and MAPK/Erk (1/2) phosphorylation, i.e., signaling pathways involved in synaptic plasticity and learning/memory. These results indicate a new intracellular insulin signaling pathway, and, additionally, that insulin resistance in Alzheimer's disease is a response to the production and accumulation of Aβ.

image

We show that insulin induces activation of protein kinase M zeta (PKMζ) and phosphorylation of Glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1); treatment with 3‐Bromo‐5‐t‐butyl‐4‐hydroxy‐benzylidenemalonitrile (AG1024) or amyloid beta oligomers decrease PKMζ expression. Pre‐treatment with AG1024 or Zeta Inhibitory Peptide (ZIP) erases insulin‐dependent GluR1 phosphorylation. These findings suggest a mechanistic explanation of insulin receptor signaling in memory and insulin resistance in Alzheimer's disease.
The ratio of acetate‐to‐glucose oxidation in astrocytes from a single 13C NMR spectrum of cerebral cortex
Authors: Marin‐Valencia Isaac , Hooshyar M. Ali , Pichumani Kumar , Sherry A. Dean , Malloy Craig R.
Published: September 2014

The 13C‐labeling patterns in glutamate and glutamine from brain tissue are quite different after infusion of a mixture of 13C‐enriched glucose and acetate. Two processes contribute to this observation, oxidation of acetate by astrocytes but not neurons, and preferential incorporation of α‐ketoglutarate into glutamate in neurons, and incorporation of α‐ketoglutarate into glutamine in astrocytes. The acetate:glucose ratio, introduced previously for analysis of a single 13C NMR spectrum, provides a useful index of acetate and glucose oxidation in the brain tissue. However, quantitation of relative substrate oxidation at the cell compartment level has not been reported. A simple mathematical method is presented to quantify the ratio of acetate‐to‐glucose oxidation in astrocytes, based on the standard assumption that neurons do not oxidize acetate. Mice were infused with [1,2‐13C]acetate and [1,6‐13C]glucose, and proton decoupled 13C NMR spectra of cortex extracts were acquired. A fit of those spectra to the model indicated that 13C‐labeled acetate and glucose contributed approximately equally to acetyl‐CoA (0.96) in astrocytes. As this method relies on a single 13C NMR spectrum, it can be readily applied to multiple physiologic and pathologic conditions.

image

Differences in 13C labeling of brain glutamate and glutamine have been attributed to metabolic compartmentation. The acetate:glucose ratio, introduced for description of a 13C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) spectrum, is an index of glucose and acetate oxidation in brain tissue. A simple mathematical method is presented to quantify the ratio of acetate‐to‐glucose oxidation in astrocytes from a single NMR spectrum. As kinetic analysis is not required, the method is readily applicable to analysis of tissue extracts. α‐KG = alpha‐ketoglutarate; CAC = citric acid cycle; GLN = glutamine; GLU = glutamate.
Collateralization, Bank Loan Rates, and Monitoring
Authors: CERQUEIRO GERALDO , ONGENA STEVEN , ROSZBACH KASPER
Published: September 2014

We show that collateral plays an important role in the design of debt contracts, the provision of credit, and the incentives of lenders to monitor borrowers. Using a unique data set from a large bank containing timely assessments of collateral values, we find that the bank responded to a legal reform that exogenously reduced collateral values by increasing interest rates, tightening credit limits, and reducing the intensity of its monitoring of borrowers and collateral, spurring borrower delinquency on outstanding claims. We thus explain why banks are senior lenders and quantify the value of claimant priority.
Short‐Term Debt as Bridge Financing: Evidence from the Commercial Paper Market
Authors: KAHL MATTHIAS , SHIVDASANI ANIL , WANG YIHUI
Published: September 2014

We analyze why firms use nonintermediated short‐term debt by studying the commercial paper (CP) market. Using a comprehensive database of CP issuers and issuance activity, we show that firms use CP to provide start‐up financing for capital investment. Firms’ CP issuance is driven by a desire to minimize transaction costs associated with raising capital for new investment. We show that firms with high rollover risk are less likely to enter the CP market, borrow less CP, and borrow more from bank credit lines. Further, CP is often refinanced with long‐term bond issuance to reduce rollover risk.
Assessment of women who applied for the uterine transplant project as potential candidates for uterus transplantation
Authors: Erman Akar Munire , Ozekinci Murat , Alper Ozgul , Demir Durkadin , Cevikol Can , Meric Bilekdemir Asli , Daloglu Aylin , Ongut Gozde , Senol Yesim , Ozdem Sebahat , Uzun Gulbahar , Luleci Guven , Suleymanlar Gultekin
Published: September 2014

Aim

To review the medical charts of women who applied for the uterine transplant project from June 2008 to June 2011 in our hospital retrospectively (18–40 years).

Methods

The data for 144 women were retrieved, and information was collected on the etiology of uterine factor infertility(UFI); ovarian reserve tests; and accompanying anatomic, infectious, genetic and endocrinological problems.

Results

There were 119 patients with primary amenorrhea and uterovaginal agenesis and 25 patients with a history of hysterectomy. The complete Müllerian agenesis patients formed the largest group of the UFI patients with better anti‐Müllerian hormone levels and antral follicle count. Anatomical anomalies such as a solitary pelvic kidney may accompany Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser syndrome (MRKH) and impede surgery. The mean ages in MRKH, hysterectomy and complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) cases were 24.7, 35.0 and 34.4 years, respectively. The karyotype analysis showed 46XX (MRKH) in 109 patients and 46XY (CAIS) in 10 of the primary amenorrhea patients.

Conclusion

Hysterectomy may deteriorate ovarian blood flow and decrease ovarian reserve. Fertility preservation may be considered in young woman undergoing hysterectomy.
Sonoembryological evaluations of the development of placenta previa and velamentous cord insertion
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi
Published: September 2014

Longitudinal and cross‐sectional investigations using ultrasound examinations during pregnancy can be used to clarify the mechanisms and pathophysiology of abnormal fetal and placental development. Such sonoembryological assessments are useful as a method for clarifying the etiology of disease. In the present review, we describe current knowledge based on our experience with applying sonoembryological methods to determine the developmental mechanisms of placenta previa and velamentous cord insertion.
Prosthetic Rehabilitation Following Socket Reconstruction with Blair‐Brown Graft and Conformer Therapy for Management of Severe Post‐Enucleation Socket Syndrome – A Clinical Report
Authors: Aggarwal Himanshi , Singh Saumyendra V. , Kumar Pradeep , Kumar Singh Arun
Published: September 2014

One of the most common tumors of the eye diagnosed in childhood is retinoblastoma, which mandates enucleation with adjunctive chemotherapy and radiotherapy to save the patient's life. The most common late enucleation complication is post‐enucleation socket syndrome (PESS), which poses a management dilemma for the prosthodontist and surgeon, along with being a major esthetic concern for the patient. The reconstruction of such sockets is complex. The purpose of this clinical report is to describe the rehabilitation of such a pediatric patient with severe PESS. The patient was successfully rehabilitated by presurgical conformer therapy, socket reconstruction surgery with non‐meshed intermediate split thickness skin graft (STSG)/Blair‐Brown graft, and postsurgical conformer stent. This was followed by fabrication of a custom ocular prosthesis, to achieve favorable functional, physical, and psychological effects.
THE EXPERIENCE OF THE LONG‐TERM DOCTOR–PATIENT RELATIONSHIP IN CONSULTANT NEPHROLOGISTS
Authors: Pooley Hannah M. , Highfield Julie , Neal Adrian
Published: September 2014

Background

There is evidence to suggest that the long‐term doctor–patient relationship is crucial in the management of chronic illness such as chronic kidney disease. While previous research has focused on patient views of the doctor–patient relationship, research exploring the doctor's experiences of this unique dynamic is lacking, leading to a gap in our understanding. Therefore, an enhanced appreciation of the experience of the doctor is important and could have potential implications for medical training and service organisation.

Objectives

In this paper, we report the first known study exploring the experience of consultant nephrologists in the long‐term doctor–patient relationship.

Participants and Design

Seven male consultant nephrologists (mean age of 48 years) took part in semi‐structured interviews, and data were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Results

Three main themes were identified from the analysis: ‘Defining my professional identity’, ‘Relating to the patient’ and ‘Coping with the job’.

Conclusion

Participants had difficulty in defining their role as doctors, discussing themselves as being more than a doctor and comparing themselves with other medical specialties to help them define their identity. Although participants enjoyed forming long‐term relationships with patients and the closeness this involved, they discussed the acute scenarios of saving lives as the most rewarding aspect of their job and used coping mechanisms that enabled them to remain detached in the relationship.
A review of melatonin as a suitable antioxidant against myocardial ischemia–reperfusion injury and clinical heart diseases
Authors: Yang Yang , Sun Yang , Yi Wei , Li Yue , Fan Chongxi , Xin Zhenlong , Jiang Shuai , Di Shouyin , Qu Yan , Reiter Russel J. , Yi Dinghua
Published: September 2014

Cardiac tissue loss is one of the most important factors leading to the unsatisfactory recovery even after treatment of ischemic heart disease. Melatonin, a circadian molecule with marked antioxidant properties, protects against ischemia–reperfusion (IR) injury. In particular, the myocardial protection of melatonin is substantial. We initially focus on the cardioprotective effects of melatonin in myocardial IR. These studies showed how melatonin preserves the microstructure of the cardiomyocyte and reduces myocardial IR injury. Thereafter, downstream signaling pathways of melatonin were summarized including Janus kinase 2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3, nitric oxide‐synthase, and nuclear factor erythroid 2 related factor 2. Herein, we propose the clinical applications of melatonin in several ischemic heart diseases. Collectively, the information summarized in this review (based on in vitro, animal, and human studies) should serve as a comprehensive reference for the action of melatonin in cardioprotection and hopefully will contribute to the design of future experimental research.
NON‐PARAMETRIC ESTIMATION OF HIGH‐FREQUENCY SPOT VOLATILITY FOR BROWNIAN SEMIMARTINGALE WITH JUMPS
Authors: Yu Chao , Fang Yue , Li Zeng , Zhang Bo , Zhao Xujie
Published: September 2014

The availability of high‐frequency financial data has led to substantial improvements in our understanding of financial volatility. Most existing literature focuses on estimating the integrated volatility over a fixed period. This article proposes a non‐parametric threshold kernel method to estimate the time‐dependent spot volatility and jumps when the underlying price process is governed by Brownian semimartingale with finite activity jumps. The threshold kernel estimator combines the threshold estimation for integrated volatility and the kernel filtering approach for spot volatility when the price process is driven only by diffusions without jumps. The estimator proposed is consistent and asymptotically normal and has the same rate of convergence as the estimator studied by Kristensen (2010) in a setting without jumps. The Monte Carlo simulation study shows that the proposed estimator exhibits excellent performance over a wide range of jump sizes and for different sampling frequencies. An empirical example is given to illustrate the potential applications of the proposed method.
NORMING RATES AND LIMIT THEORY FOR SOME TIME‐VARYING COEFFICIENT AUTOREGRESSIONS
Authors: Lieberman Offer , Phillips Peter C. B.
Published: September 2014

A time‐varying autoregression is considered with a similarity‐based coefficient and possible drift. It is shown that the random‐walk model has a natural interpretation as the leading term in a small‐sigma expansion of a similarity model with an exponential similarity function as its AR coefficient. Consistency of the quasi‐maximum likelihood estimator of the parameters in this model is established, the behaviours of the score and Hessian functions are analysed and test statistics are suggested. A complete list is provided of the normalization rates required for the consistency proof and for the score and Hessian function standardization. A large family of unit root models with stationary and explosive alternatives is characterized within the similarity class through the asymptotic negligibility of a certain quadratic form that appears in the score function. A variant of the stochastic unit root model within the class is studied, and a large‐sample limit theory provided, which leads to a new nonlinear diffusion process limit showing the form of the drift and conditional volatility induced by sustained stochastic departures from unity. The findings provide a composite case for time‐varying coefficient dynamic modelling. Some simulations and a brief empirical application to data on international Exchange Traded Funds are included. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Publishing Ltd
Synovial fluid bupivacaine concentrations following single intra‐articular injection in normal and osteoarthritic canine stifles
Authors: Barry S. L. , Martinez S. A. , Davies N. M. , Remsberg C. M. , Sayre C. L. , Bachelez A.
Published: September 2014

Intra‐articular bupivacaine helps alleviate pain in animals receiving joint surgery, but its use has become controversial as ex vivo studies have illuminated the potential for chondrotoxicity. Such studies typically involve cell cultures incubated in solutions containing high bupivacaine concentrations for long durations. The aim of this study was to measure the actual synovial fluid bupivacaine concentrations after intra‐articular injection. Eight healthy beagles with normal stifles and 22 large and giant‐breed dogs with stifle osteoarthritis (OA) were treated with a single intra‐articular injection of bupivacaine (1 mg/kg) into a stifle. Joint fluid samples were taken from the treated stifle immediately after injection and 30 min after injection and analyzed for bupivacaine concentrations. Immediately after injection, the median bupivacaine concentrations in normal and OA stifles were 3.6 and 2.5 mg/mL, respectively. Thirty minutes after injection, bupivacaine concentrations in normal and OA stifles were 0.4 and 0.6 mg/mL, respectively. These results provide insight into the pharmacokinetics of bupivacaine after injection into a joint. Given its immediate dilution and rapid drop in synovial fluid concentration, bupivacaine is unlikely to damage chondrocytes when administered as a single intra‐articular injection.
Non‐invasive ménage à trois for the prediction of high‐risk varices: stepwise algorithm using lok score, liver and spleen stiffness
Authors: Stefanescu Horia , Radu Corina , Procopet Bogdan , Lupsor‐Platon Monica , Habic Alina , Tantau Marcel , Grigorescu Mircea
Published: September 2014

Background & Aims

Liver stiffness (LS), spleen stiffness (SS) and serum markers have been proposed to non‐invasively assess portal hypertension or oesophageal varices (EV) in cirrhotic patients. We aimed to evaluate the performance of a stepwise algorithm that combines Lok score with LS and SS for diagnosing high‐risk EV (HREV) and to compare it with other already‐validated non‐invasive methods.

Methods

We performed a cross‐sectional study including 136 consecutive compensated cirrhotic patients with various aetiologies, divided into training (90) and validation (46) set. Endoscopy was performed within 6 months from inclusion for EV screening. Spleen diameter was assessed by ultrasonography. LS and SS were measured using Fibroscan. Lok score, platelet count/spleen diameter ratio, LSM‐spleen diameter to platelet ratio score and oesophageal varices risk score (EVRS) were calculated and their diagnostic accuracy for HREV was assessed. The algorithm classified patients as having/not‐having HREV. Its performance was tested and compared in both groups.

Results

In the training set, all variables could select patients with HREV with moderate accuracy, the best being LSPS (AUROC = 0.818; 0.93 sensitivity; 0.63 specificity). EVRS, however, was the only independent predictor of HREV (OR = 1.521; P = 0.032). The algorithm correctly classified 69 (76.66%) patients in the training set (P < 0.0001) and 36 (78.26%) in the validation one. In the validation group, the algorithm performed slightly better than LSPS and EVRS, showing 100% sensitivity and negative predicted value.

Conclusion

The stepwise algorithm combining Lok score, LS and SS could be used to select patients at low risk of having HREV and who may benefit from more distanced endoscopic evaluation.
Declining commercial fish catches in Lake Victoria's Winam Gulf: The importance of restructuring Kenya's aquaculture programme
Authors: Omwoma Solomon , Owuor Philip O. , Ongeri David M.‐K. , Umani Moses , Lalah Joseph O. , Schramm Karl‐Werner
Published: September 2014

The total weight of commercial fish (metric tons) caught in the Winam Gulf area of Lake Victoria in Kenya declined from 3300 mt to 760 mt between 1995 and 2009. Associated with this decline, and ranked in descending order, the species richness of the commercial fish catch was limited to seven major groups (Rastrineobola argentea; Lates niloticus; Protopterus aethiopicus; Labeo victorianus; Haplochromis species; Clarias gariaepinus; Bagrus domac). Numerous hypotheses ranging from eutrophication, inadequate control of the exotic water hyacinth and overfishing were advanced to explain this decline. The Kenyan government, working in partnership with international organizations, implemented multiple restoration and management programmes in response, including aquaculture. Unfortunately, success for this implemented programme has been very limited because important socio‐economic driving factors were overlooked. To provide a better understanding of the issues, 150 members of the Winam Gulf fishing community, ranging in age from 20 to 40 years, were surveyed. The results of this survey identified poverty and inadequate education as two major issues requiring substantial attention. The survey also suggested that if societal changes are to occur, it will rest upon changing the beliefs of the youth in the Winam Gulf area. Restructuring Kenya's aquaculture programme, with a focus on the youth, provides a pathway for increasing the literacy level of the community, as well as for reducing poverty.
Integrating economic and hydrologic interdependence in reservoir management
Authors: Debnath Deepayan
Published: September 2014

The purpose of this study is to determine the optimal allocation of reservoir water among competing uses (hydroelectric power generation, lake recreation and urban and rural water supply). An optimization model using nonlinear programming is developed to optimally allocate reservoir water among these uses. It is not unusual to optimize the values for flood control, hydroelectric generation, and urban and rural water uses, and to determine recreation values as a residual. Furthermore, if recreation values are considered, it may be in the form of constraints that maintain reservoir water levels within a specified range. In contrast, this study develops a model in which the recreational benefits depend explicitly on lake water levels, while the flood control capacity of the reservoir is maintained through upper bounds on the lake level. A mass balance equation is used to determine the water levels and volumes in the lake for each month over a twelve‐month period. The General Algebraic Modeling System with MINOS is used to solve this model. The results indicate that the total economic benefits for Lake Tenkiller could be increased by directly including recreational values in the model, and maintaining lake water levels at near‐normal levels that maximize the number of summer visitations. The optimal allocation of Lake Tenkiller water among competing uses also satisfies the equimarginal principle. That is, the marginal value of water at the lake in each month is the same for the last unit of water used for hydroelectric, recreational, or urban and rural water uses. Use of this type of modelling framework would assist policymakers or reservoir managers in reallocation of reservoir water and in calibrating several policy scenarios.
Using occupancy analysis to validate the use of footprint tunnels as a method for monitoring the hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus
Authors: Yarnell Richard W. , Pacheco Marina , Williams Ben , Neumann Jessica L. , Rymer David J. , Baker Philip J.
Published: September 2014

Indirect survey methods are often used in studies of mammals but are susceptible to biases caused by failure to detect species where they are present. Occupancy analysis is an analytical technique which enables non‐detection rates to be estimated and which can be used to develop and refine novel survey methods. In this study, we investigated the use of footprint tunnels by volunteers as a method for surveying occupancy of sites by hedgehogs Erinaceus europaeus. The survey protocol led to a very low non‐detection rate and could reasonably be used to detect occupancy changes of 25% with statistical power of 0.95 in a national survey.
Comparative landscape genetics of two river frog species occurring at different elevations on Mount Kilimanjaro
Authors: Zancolli Giulia , Rödel Mark‐Oliver , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf , Storfer Andrew
Published: September 2014

Estimating population connectivity and species' abilities to disperse across the landscape is crucial for understanding the long‐term persistence of species in changing environments. Surprisingly, few landscape genetic studies focused on tropical regions despite the alarming extinction rates within these ecosystems. Here, we compared the influence of landscape features on the distribution of genetic variation of an Afromontane frog, Amietia wittei, with that of its more broadly distributed lowland congener, Amietia angolensis, on Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. We predicted high gene flow in the montane species with movements enhanced through terrestrial habitats of the continuous rainforest. In contrast, dispersal might be restricted to aquatic corridors and reduced by anthropogenic disturbance in the lowland species. We found high gene flow in A. wittei relative to other montane amphibians. Nonetheless, gene flow was lower than in the lowland species which showed little population structure. Least‐cost path analysis suggested that dispersal is facilitated by stream networks in both species, but different landscape features were identified to influence connectivity among populations. Contrary to a previous study, gene flow in the lowland species was negatively correlated with the presence of human settlements. Also, genetic subdivision in A. wittei did not coincide with specific physical barriers as in other landscape genetic studies, suggesting that factors other than topography may contribute to population divergence. Overall, these results highlight the importance of a comparative landscape genetic approach for assessing the influence of the landscape matrix on population connectivity, particularly because nonintuitive results can alter the course of conservation and management.
Safety and efficacy of autologous mesenchymal stromal cells transplantation in patients undergoing living donor kidney transplantation: A pilot study
Authors: Mudrabettu Chetan , Kumar Vinod , Rakha Aruna , Yadav Ashok K , Ramachandran Raja , Kanwar Deepesh B , Nada Ritambhra , Minz Mukut , Sakhuja Vinay , Marwaha Neelam , Jha Vivekanand
Published: September 2014

Aim

This pilot study assesses the safety and feasibility of autologous mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) transplantation in four patients that underwent living donor renal transplantation, and the effect on the immunophenotype and functionality of peripheral T lymphocytes following transplantation.

Methods

All patients received low dose ATG induction followed by calcineurin inhibitor‐based triple drug maintenance immunosuppression. Autologous MSCs were administered intravenously pre transplant and day 30 post‐transplant. Patients were followed up for 6 months. The frequency of regulatory T cells and T cell proliferation was assessed at different time points.

Results

None of the four patients developed any immediate or delayed adverse effects following MSC infusion. All had excellent graft function, and none developed graft dysfunction. Protocol biopsies at 1 and 3 months did not reveal any abnormality. Compared to baseline, there was an increase in the CD4 + CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and reduction in CD4 T cell proliferation.

Conclusion

We conclude that autologous MSCs can be used safely in patients undergoing living donor renal transplantation, lead to expansion of regulatory T cells and decrease in T cell proliferation. Larger randomized trials studies are needed to confirm these findings and evaluate whether this will have any impact on immunosuppressive therapy.
Arteriolar hyalinosis and arterial hypertension as possible surrogate markers of reduced interstitial blood flow and hypoxia in glomerulonephritis
Authors: Bazzi Claudio , Stivali Gilda , Rachele Gregorio , Rizza Virginia , Casellato Daniela , Nangaku Masaomi
Published: September 2014

Background

In glomerulonephritis the final common pathway to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) is tubulo‐interstitial damage (TID) whose main determinants are proteinuria and hypoxia consequent to haemodynamic and vascular alterations that reduce interstitial blood flow. Since oxygen tension is difficult to measure in human disease, arteriolar hyalinosis and arterial hypertension have been considered as possible surrogate markers of interstitial hypoxia.

Methods

The relationship between TID and arteriolar hyalinosis and arterial hypertension was evaluated in 132 IgA nephropathy (IgAN) and 79 idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN) patients. At biopsy tubulo‐interstitial damage and arteriolar hyalinosis score were semi‐quantitatively evaluated; urinary protein/creatinine ratio (P/C), fractional excretion (FE) of α1‐microglobulin, urinary β‐NAG/creatinine ratio (NAG/C/eGFR) and urinary SDS‐PAGE pattern were measured.

Results

In IgAN arteriolar hyalinosis (AH) score correlates with TID score (P < 0.0001), FE α1m (P = 0.004) and NAG/C/eGFR (P = 0.001), but not with P/C (P = 0.10). Patients with or without AH were different in terms of global glomerulosclerosis (GGS: P < 0.001), TID score (P < 0.001), FE α1m (P = 0.015), NAG/C/eGFR (P = 0.002), but not of P/C (P = 0.19). In IMN AH score correlates with TID score (P < 0.0001), FEα1m (P = 0.04), NAG/C/eGFR (P = 0.001), SDS‐PAGE pattern (P = 0.018), but not with P/C (P = 0.10). Patients with or without AH were different in term of GGS% (P = 0.05), TID score (P = 0.001), FE α1m (P = 0.039), NAG/C/eGFR (P = 0.001), SDS‐PAGE pattern (P = 0.02), but not of P/C (P = 0.065). Similar results for normal versus high blood pressure.

Conclusions

Arteriolar hyalinosis and arterial hypertension, associated with TID and GGS, factors that reduce interstitial capillary bed and blood flow, may be considered as reliable surrogate markers of hypoxia and co‐determinants of TID.
Left Axillary Pacemaker Generator Implantation with a Direct Puncture of the Left Axillary Vein
Authors: NORO MAHITO , ZHU XIN , TAKAGI TAKAHITO , SAHARA NAOHIKO , NARABAYASHI YURIKO , HASHIMOTO HIKARI , ITO NAOSHI , ENOMOTO YOSHINARI , NAKAMURA KEIJIROU , KUJIME SHINGO , SAKAI TUYOSHI , SAKATA TAKAO , SUGI KAORU
Published: September 2014

Background

Pacemaker generators are routinely implanted in the anterior chest. However, where to place the generator may need to be considered from the mental, functional, and cosmetic standpoints.

Methods

In this study, we performed the left axillary pacemaker generator implantation with a direct puncture of the left axillary vein in 40 consecutive patients, and evaluated the late safety and efficacy of this implantation. Complications, changes in the lead sensing, pacing threshold, and impedance were used as safety indexes for a mean follow‐up of 3.4 years. In addition, the efficacy was also evaluated by comparing their questionnaire survey results to 119 patients in a control group of anterior chest implantation.

Results

Lead dislodgements were observed in two patients of the experiment group. There were no migrations of generators from the implantation site or abnormal variations in the pacing threshold, lead sensing, or impedance. In the left anterior chest and left axillary groups, 85% and 10% of the patients were worried about an external impact, 80% and 25% were worried about electromagnetic interference, and 68% and 0% answered that the pacemaker implantation site was noticeable, respectively. Apparently, more patients had a sense of security and cosmetic satisfaction with the left axillary implantation.

Conclusion

The left axillary generator implantations may reduce the mental burden and cause no safety concerns, and may be performed if functional or cosmetic outcomes are required.
Age‐specific influence of wheezing phenotypes on pre‐adolescent and adolescent health‐related quality of life
Authors: Braig Stefanie , Brandt Stephanie , Wabitsch Martin , Florath Ines , Brenner Hermann , Rothenbacher Dietrich , Genuneit Jon
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Asthma is associated with diminished health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Particularly in adolescence, asthma may be under‐diagnosed and undertreated or poorly managed. Therefore, we aimed to determine the association between childhood wheezing phenotypes rather than asthma and adolescent HRQoL in children aged 10–17 yr.

Methods

We analyzed the data from two prospective population‐based cohort studies (n = 604 and n = 1804) conducted in southern Germany with baseline assessments in 2000 and 2006 and follow‐ups at frequent intervals. Parent‐reported wheeze was categorized into never, early transient, persistent, and late‐onset wheeze. We assessed child‐reported HRQoL in seven scales using the validated KINDL‐R. Multivariate linear regression models were computed.

Results

Participants with late‐onset wheeze had significantly lower values in all HRQoL scales, but physical well‐being compared to never wheezers. Early transient wheeze was negatively associated with three HRQoL scales only (family, school, and total). These effects were confined to the oldest age group (≥13.5 yr) in one study. Persistent wheeze was not associated with HRQoL.

Conclusions

In teenagers, late‐onset wheezers seem to be particularly vulnerable for impairments in psychosocial aspects of health‐related quality of life. They may therefore require particular attention with regard to education about asthma management and potentially family‐based psychosocial intervention.
Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and childhood allergic diseases: a systematic review
Authors: Das Rashmi R. , Naik Sushree S.
Published: September 2014

Studies have found a link between neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (NNH) and/or neonatal phototherapy (NPT) and childhood allergic diseases. The present systematic review was conducted to provide updated evidence and to provide direction regarding future research. A systematic search of the published literature was carried out. Observational studies including children up to 12 yr of age were included. Data extraction was carried out using a standardized data extraction form that was designed and pilot tested a priori. The analysis was carried out with the statistical software RevMan (version 5.2) [Protocol is registered at PROSPERO: CRD42014009943]. Of 79 citations retrieved, a total of 7 good quality studies (n = 101,499) were included in the final analysis. There was a significant increase in the odds of asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR) after NNH [asthma, OR 4.26 (95% CI 4.04–4.5); AR, OR 5.37 (95% CI 4.16–6.92)] and after NPT [asthma, OR 3.81 (95% CI 3.53–4.11); AR, OR 3.04(95% CI 2.13–4.32)]. A similar increase in the trend was noted for late onset of asthma after NNH [OR 4.1 (95% CI 2.82–5.94)], and hospitalization due to asthma after NPT [OR 3.56 (95% CI 2.93–4.33)]. The GRADE evidence generated was of ‘low quality’. The current evidence finds a significant increase in the odds of childhood allergic diseases after NNH and/or NPT. As observational studies were included, the evidence generated was of ‘low quality’. Future studies should try to elucidate the pathophysiologic link between NNH and/or NPT and childhood allergic diseases.
Analgesic effects of gabapentin after scoliosis surgery in children: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mayell Antonia , Srinivasan Ilavajady , Campbell Fiona , Peliowski Arie
Published: September 2014

Background

Postoperative pain remains an important challenge after scoliosis surgery in children. Opioids are the mainstay of treatment, and adult studies demonstrate gabapentin as a useful adjunct to opioids in the management of postoperative pain.

Method

Adolescent patients undergoing idiopathic scoliosis surgery were randomized to receive a single preoperative dose of gabapentin 600 mg or placebo. The primary outcome measure was total morphine consumption in mg·kg−1 between 0 and 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcome measures included time to first rescue analgesia, pain intensity scores at rest and with movement, incidence of nausea, vomiting, pruritus, sedation, dizziness, presence of persisting pain symptoms, and patient satisfaction. Cumulative opioid consumption was calculated at each time point: 1, 4, 8, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h.

Results

The gabapentin group used 0.087 ± 0.06 mg·kg−1 of morphine at 1 h, 0.24 ± 0.12 mg·kg−1 at 4 h, 0.44 ± 0.17 mg·kg−1 at 8 h, and 1.29 ± 0.44 mg·kg−1 at 24 h. The placebo group used 0.121 ± 0.06 mg·kg−1 of morphine at 1 h, 0.35 ± 0.16 mg·kg−1 at 4 h, 0.56 ± 0.27 mg·kg−1 at 8 h, and 1.46 ± 0.68 mg·kg−1 at 24 h. There was no statistically significant reduction in opioid consumption in the patients receiving gabapentin. There were no significant differences in secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

A single preoperative dose of gabapentin did not show a significant difference in opioid consumption or pain scores in adolescents undergoing idiopathic scoliosis surgery. This study is the first pediatric randomized controlled trial to assess the effectiveness of a single dose of gabapentin on morphine consumption and analgesia following major surgery.
Adjuncts should always be used in pediatric regional anesthesia
Authors: Lönnqvist Per‐Arne
Published: September 2014

A number of different adjuncts to local anesthetics can be used to prolong and optimize postoperative pain relief following regional anesthesia in children. The present text provides a slightly opinionated but evidence‐based argument in favor of this practice.
Japanese herbal medicines shosaikoto, inchinkoto, and juzentaihoto inhibit high‐fat diet‐induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in db/db mice
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihisa , Soejima Yurie , Kumagai Arisa , Watanabe Masato , Uozaki Hiroshi , Fukusato Toshio
Published: September 2014

Few studies have investigated the effects of Japanese herbal medicines on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). To the best of our knowledge, only one study has examined whether high‐fat (HF) diet‐fed db/db mice are appropriate animal models of NASH. We investigated the effects of four types of Japanese herbal medicines (shosaikoto (TJ‐9), inchinkoto (TJ‐135), juzentaihoto (TJ‐48), and keishibukuryogan (TJ‐25)) on hepatic lesions of HF diet‐fed db/db mice. Db/db mice were divided into six groups: control diet (control); HF diet (HF); and HF diet supplemented with TJ‐9, TJ‐135, TJ‐48, or TJ‐25 (TJ‐9, TJ‐135, TJ‐48, and TJ‐25, respectively). Mice were killed after 6 weeks of treatment, and biochemical and pathological analyses were performed. Mice in the HF group consistently developed histopathological features consistent with definite NASH, and marked necroinflammation occurred. Serum alanine aminotransferase levels in the TJ‐9, TJ‐135, and TJ‐48 groups were significantly improved compared with those in the HF group. With regard to liver histology, TJ‐9 and TJ‐48 significantly improved lobular inflammation, and TJ‐135 significantly improved ballooning degeneration. We have shown that HF diet‐fed db/db mice are animal models that correctly recapitulate the histopathology of human NASH and that TJ‐9, TJ‐135, and TJ‐48 inhibit necroinflammatory activity in this model.