bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Textures and processes of laminated travertines formed by unicellular cyanobacteria in Myoken hot spring, southwestern Japan
Authors: Okumura Tomoyo , Takashima Chizuru , Kano Akihiro
Published: July 2013

Lamina‐forming processes of moderately thermophilic (∼55°C) unicellular cyanobacteria were identified for the carbonate travertine in the Myoken Hot Spring, Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan. Continuous 28‐h monitoring of surface textures clearly showed a diurnal pattern in sub‐millimeter order lamination, comprised of daytime dark colored aragonite layers, and night‐time light colored calcite layers. The layering was controlled principally by daily cycles of unicellular cyanobacteria closely related to Thermosynechococcus elongatus BP‐1. During a day, cyanobacteria migrated to the surface, and formed a dark green biofilm, in which CaCO3 is precipitated as radial aggregates of needle aragonite. After sunset, calcite precipitation formed dendritic aggregates of rhombic crystals that cover the biofilm. Physicochemical conditions of the ambient water were stable throughout a day; therefore CaCO3 polymorphs (aragonite/calcite) were controlled by the presence/absence of certain microbial effects, such as extracellular polymeric substances secreted by cyanobacteria. When travertine growth reached the water level, a yellow‐green microbial mat developed on the subaerially exposed surface. Here, filamentous cyanobacteria joined in the microbial community under lowered temperature (∼40°C). Aragonite crystal precipitation occurring in the microbial mat supported the microbial effects on CaCO3 polymorphs. Geomicrobiological processes, effects, and the environmental conditions demonstrated in this travertine provide insights into a further understand of microbial textures in ancient carbonate sediments.
Fabrication and Characterization of In Situ Porous Si3N4‐Si2N2O‐BN Ceramic
Authors: Wang Shengjin , Yang Zhihua , Duan Xiaoming , Jia Dechang , Ma Feixiang , Sun Boqian , Zhou Yu
Published: July 2013

Porous Si3N4‐Si2N2O‐BN ceramic was fabricated at 1750°C using Si3N4, BN, and (NH4)2HPO4 as starting materials. During the sintering process, oxygen from the decomposed products of (NH4)2HPO4 would bond Si and N in the liquid phase to form Si2N2O. The microstructure and properties of the porous ceramics were investigated. With the (NH4)2HPO4 content varied from 10 to 50 vol.%, porosity of the porous Si3N4‐Si2N2O‐BN ceramic increased from 43.5% to 51%. The microstructure, mechanical, and dielectric properties was well controlled by adjusting (NH4)2HPO4 contents. The present technique offers a more simple way of synthesizing porous Si3N4‐Si2N2O‐BN ceramics.
Doping Effects on the Crystal Structure and Electrochemical Performance of LiFePO4/C
Authors: Yang Yang , Li Kezhi , Li Hejun
Published: July 2013

LiFe0.98M0.02PO4/C (M = Mg, Ni, Co, Sr) composite materials were prepared by solid‐state synthesis method using Fe2O3 as one of the starting materials. The structures and electrochemical performance of samples were carried out by means of XRD, SEM, TEM, and constant‐current charge–discharge method. The results showed that the ion doping did not change the crystal structure and morphology of LiFePO4. Unit‐cell volume gradually increased, which was good for embedding and disembedding of Li+, and improving conductivity and charge–discharge performance. The electrical conductivity of powders was increased by carbon coating and ion doping. The initial discharge capacity of Ni2+‐doped sample reached 156.6 mA·h/g and 149.4 mA·h/g at 0.2C and 1C rate. After 30 cycles, the capacity retention rate was still 98.8% and 97.2%.
Comparison between Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers on the Risk of Stroke Recurrence and Longitudinal Progression of White Matter Lesions and Silent Brain Infarcts on MRI (CEREBRAL Study): Rationale, Design, and Methodology
Authors: Yamano Shigeru , Horii Manabu , Takami Takeshi , Sakuma Mio , Morimoto Takeshi , Okada Sadanori , Taoka Toshiaki , Kichikawa Kimihiko , Sasamura Hiroyuki , Itoh Hiroshi , Furuya Yoshiko , Ueno Satoshi , Imamura Tomoaki , Sugiyama Seigo , Ogawa Hisao , Saito Yoshihiko
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Patients with a history of ischemic stroke are known to develop new ischemic stroke. While asymptomatic, the presence and progression of silent brain infarcts and white matter lesions on magnetic resonance imaging are associated with an increased risk of future strokes. Both angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers are recommended for the primary and secondary prevention of stroke, but there are no direct comparisons of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors versus angiotensin II receptor blockers regarding their cerebroprotective effects, including their effect on asymptomatic cerebral lesions detected by magnetic resonance imaging.

Methods

Elderly (65 years or older) patients with essential hypertension who underwent cerebral magnetic resonance imaging and were found to have any cerebral ischemic lesions, such as cerebral infarction, silent brain infarct, or white matter lesion, were enrolled in this CEREBRAL study. Patients who agreed to participate were enrolled in the randomized controlled trial portion. Patients who did not agree to participate in the randomized controlled trial were enrolled in the cohort study portion. After two-years of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blockers treatment, follow-up magnetic resonance imaging examination will be performed. The primary end-point is the composite of ( 1 ) occurrence of a fatal or nonfatal cerebrovascular event or ( 2 ) progression of cerebrovascular lesions as evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging, including white matter lesions or silent brain infarcts. After enrollment, cognitive function was evaluated, if possible, using the Mini-Mental State Examination.

Conclusions

Our study will clarify whether angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers are more effective for preventing primary and recurrence of ischemic stroke, including the progression of asymptomatic cerebral lesions on magnetic resonance imaging, in elderly hypertensive patients.
Outcomes for People with Atrial Fibrillation in an Australian National Audit of Stroke Care
Authors: Andrew Nadine , Kilkenny Monique , Harris Dawn , Price Chris , Cadilhac Dominique A.
Published: July 2013

Background

Atrial fibrillation is associated with poorer outcomes poststroke. It is unclear how the quality of stroke care in hospitals influences outcomes in these patients.

Aims

The study aims to compare outcomes in stroke patients with and without atrial fibrillation and identify hospital processes of care associated with poor outcomes.

Methods

Data were collected using retrospective, consecutive medical record audits from participating hospitals in the 2009 and 2011 National Stroke Foundation acute services audit program. Patient characteristics, stroke severity, and hospital management data were compared for those with and without atrial fibrillation. Multiple regression analyses for outcomes of in-hospital death, dependency at discharge (modified Rankin Score 3–5), and discharge destination were undertaken, adjusted for patient clustering by hospital.

Results

Atrial fibrillation status was known for 5473 (80%) cases; 2049 had atrial fibrillation. Atrial fibrillation was independently associated with in-hospital mortality (aOR 1·46, 95% CI 1·06, 2·02). Management on a stroke unit (aOR 0·57, 95% CI 0·40, 0·80) and having a swallow assessment within 24 h (aOR 0·71, 95% CI 0·51, 0·98) were associated with increased survival among all stroke types, as was receiving aspirin within 48 h poststroke (aOR 0·65, 95% CI 0·44, 0·97), for patients with an ischemic stroke. Stroke patients with atrial fibrillation were less likely to receive important processes of care associated with reduced mortality.

Conclusions

Hospital processes of care can influence outcomes in stroke patients with atrial fibrillation. The greater in-hospital mortality experienced by stroke patients with atrial fibrillation may be attenuated by admission to a stroke unit, and for ischemic stroke, early administration of aspirin.
Effects of Carotid Endarterectomy or Stenting on Hemodynamic Complications in the International Carotid Stenting Study: A Randomized Comparison
Authors: Altinbas Aysun , Algra Ale , Brown Martin M. , Featherstone Roland L. , Kappelle L. Jaap , de Borst Gert Jan , Mali Willem P. Th. M. , van der Worp H. Bart ,   for the International Carotid Stenting Study Investigators
Published: July 2013

Background

Carotid endarterectomy and carotid artery stenting are frequently complicated by hemodynamic instability.

Aims

The study aims to compare the incidence of hemodynamic complications between carotid artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy in the International Carotid Stenting Study (ISRCTN25337470).

Methods

Patients with symptomatic carotid stenosis were randomly allocated to carotid artery stenting or carotid endarterectomy. The occurrence of peri-procedural hemodynamic depression (severe bradycardia, asystole, or hypotension requiring treatment) and hypertension requiring treatment was assessed in a per-protocol analysis. We compared the rate of hemodynamic complications, determined independent predictors thereof, and assessed their relation with the composite outcome of all-cause death, stroke, and myocardial infarction within 30 days of treatment.

Results

A number of 766 carotid artery stenting and 819 carotid endarterectomy patients had a single completed intervention. Hemodynamic depression occurred in 13·8% after carotid artery stenting and in 7·2% after carotid endarterectomy (relative risk 1·9, 95% confidence interval 1·4–2·6, P < 0·0001). Hypertension requiring treatment occurred less often after carotid artery stenting than after carotid endarterectomy (relative risk 0·2, 95% confidence interval, 0·1–0·4, P < 0·0001). In carotid artery stenting patients, a history of cardiac failure was the strongest independent predictor of hemodynamic depression (relative risk 2·4, 95% confidence interval 1·3–4·8, P = 0·009). There was no statistically significant association between hemodynamic complications and the occurrence of the composite outcome.

Conclusion

Hemodynamic depression occurs more often after carotid artery stenting and severe hypertension more often after carotid endarterectomy, but these complications are not responsible for the excess of major perioperative events after carotid artery stenting.
Health of adults living with a clinically significant haemoglobinopathy in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Crowther H. J. , Lindeman R. , Ho P. J. , Allen E. , Waite C. , Matthews S. , Jobburn K. , Teo J. , Day S. , Seldon M. , Rosenfeld D. , Kerridge I.
Published: July 2013

Aim

To comprehensively review the health needs of patients living with clinically significant haemoglobinopathies (thalassaemia and sickle‐cell disease (SCD)) in New South Wales, Australia.

Methods

A survey‐based health needs assessment was undertaken in outpatients cared for at five tertiary institutions in metropolitan and regional centres. Sixty‐three of 121 adults (approximately 80–90% of adult patients with transfusion‐requiring haemoglobinopathies in New South Wales) completed an in‐house and commercial health‐related quality assessment survey (SF‐36v2).

Results

Subjects came from more than eight world regions, with those with SCD being more likely to be born outside of Australia than subjects with thalassaemia (P < 0.001, likelihood ratio 20.64) as well as more likely to have been refugees (26% vs 2%). The population contained socially disadvantaged subjects with 13 subjects (20.6%) having incomes below the Australian poverty line. Complications of thalassaemia were comparable to previous international reports although our subjects had a high rate of secondary amenorrhea (>12 months = 27%) and surgical splenectomy (55.6%). Use of hydroxyurea in SCD was less than expected with only 46.6% of subjects having prior use. Lack of universal access to magnetic resonance imaging‐guided chelation (international best practice) was evident, although 65.5% had been able to access magnetic resonance imaging through clinical trial, or self‐funding.

Conclusions

Patients with SCD and thalassaemia experience considerable morbidity and mortality and require complex, multidisciplinary care. This study revealed both variance from international best practice and between specialist units. The results of this research may provide the impetus for the development of clinical and research networks to enable the uniform delivery of health services benchmarked against international standards.
Development and ultra‐structure of an ultra‐thin silicone epidermis of bioengineered alternative tissue
Authors: Wessels Quenton , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: July 2013

Burn wound care today has a primary objective of temporary or permanent wound closure. Commercially available engineered alternative tissues have become a valuable adjunct to the treatment of burn injuries. Their constituents can be biological, alloplastic or a combination of both. Here the authors describe the aspects of the development of a siloxane epidermis for a collagen‐glycosaminoglycan and for nylon‐based artificial skin replacement products. A method to fabricate an ultra‐thin epidermal equivalent is described. Pores, to allow the escape of wound exudate, were punched and a tri‐filament nylon mesh or collagen scaffold was imbedded and silicone polymerisation followed at 120°C for 5 minutes. The ultra‐structure of these bilaminates was assessed through scanning electron microscopy. An ultra‐thin biomedical grade siloxane film was reliably created through precision coating on a pre‐treated polyethylene terephthalate carrier.
Developments in the taxonomy of silica‐scaled chrysophytes – from morphological and ultrastructural to molecular approaches
Authors: Škaloud Pavel , Kristiansen Jørgen , Škaloudová Magda
Published: July 2013

Taxonomy in silica‐scaled chrysophytes has gone through three morphological phases. From primary studies of the cell morphology in the 18th century, the focus was in the 20th century replaced by studies of the silica structures of the cell envelope. Now, in the latest decades the importance of DNA sequencing has been recognized, not only to support the taxonomic framework but also to obtain new understanding of taxonomic relations among particular taxa. In the first part of this review, we provide a historical overview of the developments in the taxonomy of scale‐bearing chrysophytes. In the second part, we present a phylogenetic reconstruction of chrysophyte algae, updated by newly obtained SSU rDNA and rbcL sequences of several isolated Synura, Mallomonas and Chrysosphaerella species. We detected significant incongruence between the phylogenies obtained from the different datasets, with the SSU rDNA phylogram being the most congruent with the morphological data. Significant saturation of the first rbcL codon position could indicate the presence of positive selection in the rbcL dataset. Within the Synurales, the relationships revealed by the phylogenetic analyses highlight the artificial infragenetic classification of Mallomonas and Synura, and the occurrence of cryptic diversity within a number of traditionally defined species. Finally, three new combinations are proposed based on the phylogenetic analyses: Tessellaria lapponica, Synura asmundiae and S. bjoerkii.
Ovarian development status and population characteristics of Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) and Nilaparvata lugens (Stål): implications for pest forecasting
Authors: Zheng D. B. , Hu G. , Yang F. , Du X. D. , Yang H. B. , Zhang G. , Qi G. J. , Liang Z. L. , Zhang X. X. , Cheng X. N. , Zhai B. P.
Published: July 2013

Migratory behaviour in insects correlates with reproductive development in females, and migration often occurs during the pre‐reproductive stage of adults. The relationship between ovarian development and population status of the white‐backed planthopper Sogatella furcifera (Horváth) and the brown planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) was evaluated. Females of both species were captured in rice fields and light traps and then dissected in double‐season rice‐farming regions of southern China. The ovarian development of S. furcifera and N. lugens was divided into five levels, following previous studies. The population statuses of both species were examined based on the ovarian development of female adults caught in rice paddies. The ovarian development in N. lugens females caught in light traps mostly ranged from level I to level II, whereas that in S. furcifera females caught in light traps mostly ranged from level I to level III. During peak immigration, ovarian development in N. lugens females was mainly at level II, whereas that in S. furcifera females was mainly at level II and sporadically at level III. During peak emigration, both S. furcifera and N. lugens showed level I ovarian development. The temporal dynamics of ovarian development in light trap catches revealed that (i) significant emigration and partial immigration periods occur in S. furcifera, with ovarian development mainly at level I and sporadically from level II to level III and (ii) numerous immigrants of N. lugens were detected during sedentary and local breeding periods. The temporal dynamics of ovarian development provides more information than does the paddy population. Thus, this study proposes another method for pest forecasting, which is more precise and efficient than conventional forecasting methods such as light trap catching and monitoring population dynamics in rice fields.
Examining the link between personality and laterality in a feral guppy Poecilia reticulata population
Authors: Irving E. , Brown C.
Published: July 2013

This study examined whether variation in the strength and direction of lateralization in a detour task was linked with variation in three common personality measurements: boldness, activity and sociability, in a population of wild guppies Poecilia reticulata. Additionally, the aim was to determine whether any consistent correlations between these behavioural traits, known as behavioural syndromes, were present in the study population. The results revealed that all three personality traits were highly repeatable over time in both sexes. Evidence of a complex syndrome in the form of a correlation between boldness, sociability and activity was found; however, this relationship was only present in males. Males that were more active in a familiar environment emerged more quickly from shelter into a novel environment and were more social. In general, male P. reticulata were bold, active and antisocial compared to females, with these differences probably a reflection of opposing life‐history strategies. Only a weak link between the strength of cerebral lateralisation and personality was discovered and this was mediated by sex.
Resilient parenting of preschool children at developmental risk
Authors: Ellingsen R. , Baker B. L. , Blacher J. , Crnic K.
Published: July 2013

Background

Given the great benefits of effective parenting to child development under normal circumstances, and the even greater benefits in the face of risk, it is important to understand why some parents manage to be effective in their interactions with their child despite facing formidable challenges. This study examined factors that promoted effective parenting in the presence of child developmental delay, high child behaviour problems, and low family income.

Method

Data were obtained from 232 families at child age 3 and 5 years. Using an adapted ABCX model, we examined three risk domains (child developmental delay, child behaviour problems, and low family income) and three protective factors (mother's education, health, and optimism). The outcome of interest was positive parenting as coded from mother–child interactions.

Results

Levels of positive parenting differed across levels of risk. Education and optimism appeared to be protective factors for positive parenting at ages 3 and 5, and health appeared to be an additional protective factor at age 5. There was an interaction between risk and education at age 3; mothers with higher education engaged in more positive parenting at higher levels of risk than did mothers with less education. There was also an interaction between risk and optimism at age 3; mothers with higher optimism engaged in more positive parenting at lower levels of risk than did mothers with less optimism. The risk index did not predict change in positive parenting from age 3–5, but the protective factor of maternal health predicted positive changes.

Conclusions

This study examined factors leading to positive parenting in the face of risk, a topic that has received less attention in the literature on disability. Limitations, future directions, and implications for intervention are discussed.
Analyses of muscle spindles in the soleus of six inbred mouse strains
Authors: Lionikas Arimantas , Smith Colin J. , Smith Tracey L. , Bünger Lutz , Banks Robert W. , Bewick Guy S.
Published: July 2013

Adult muscle size and fibre‐type composition are heritable traits that vary substantially between individuals. We used inbred mouse strains in which soleus muscle mass varied by an order of magnitude to explore whether properties of muscle spindles can also be influenced by genetic factors. Skip‐serial cross‐sections of soleus muscles dissected from 15 male mice of BEH, BEL, C57BL/6J, DUH, LG/J and SM/J strains were analysed for number of muscle spindles and characteristics of intrafusal and extrafusal fibres following ATPase staining. The BEL and DUH strains determined the range of: soleus mean size, a 10‐fold difference from 2.1 to 22.3 mg, respectively; the mean number of extrafusal fibres, a 2.5‐fold difference from 497 to 1249; and mean fibre‐cross‐sectional area, three‐fold difference, e.g. for type 1 fibres, from 678 to 1948 μm2. The range of mean proportion of type 1 fibres was determined by C57BL/6J (31%) and DUH (64%) strains. The mean number of spindles per muscle ranged between nine (LG/J) and 13 (BEL) (strain effect P < 0.02). Genetic correlations between spindle count and muscle weight or properties of extrafusal fibres were weak and not statistically significant. However, there was a strong correlation between the proportion of spindles with more than one bag2 fibre and the proportion of extrafusal fibres that were of type 1, and strain‐dependent variation in the numbers of such spindles was statistically significant. The numbers of intrafusal fibres per spindle ranged from 2 to 8, with the most common complement of four found in 75.6% of spindles. There were no significant differences between the strains in the mean numbers of intrafusal fibres; however, the variance of the number was significantly less for the C57BL/6J strain than for any of the others. We conclude that abundance of muscle spindles and their intrafusal‐fibre composition are substantially determined by genetic factors, which are different from those affecting muscle size and properties of the extrafusal fibres.
Immunohistochemical localization of translationally controlled tumor protein in the mouse digestive system
Authors: Sheverdin Vadim , Jung Jiwon , Lee Kyunglim
Published: July 2013

Translationally controlled tumor protein (TCTP) is a housekeeping protein, highly conserved among various species. It plays a major role in cell differentiation, growth, proliferation, apoptosis and carcinogenesis. Studies reported so far on TCTP expression in different digestive organs have not led to any understanding of the role of TCTP in digestion, so we localized TCTP in organs of the mouse digestive system employing immunohistochemical techniques. Translationally controlled tumor protein was found expressed in all organs studied: tongue, salivary glands, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, liver and pancreas. The expression of TCTP was found to be predominant in epithelia and neurons of myenteric nerve ganglia; high in serous glands (parotid, submandibular, gastric, intestinal crypts, pancreatic acini) and in neurons of myenteric nerve ganglia, and moderate to low in epithelia. In epithelia, expression of TCTP varied depending on its type and location. In enteric neurons, TCTP was predominantly expressed in the processes. Translationally controlled tumor protein expression in the liver followed porto‐central gradient with higher expression in pericentral hepatocytes. In the pancreas, TCTP was expressed in both acini and islet cells. Our finding of nearly universal localization and expression of TCTP in mouse digestive organs points to the hitherto unrecognized functional importance of TCTP in the digestive system and suggests the need for further studies of the possible role of TCTP in the proliferation, secretion, absorption and neural regulation of the digestive process and its importance in the physiology and pathology of digestive process.
Hypoxia alters pharmacokinetics of argirein because of mitochondrial dysfunction that is alleviated by apocynin
Authors: Zhang Yu-Mao , Yu Feng , Dai De-Zai , Gao Jie , Cong Xiao-Dong , Dai Yin
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Pharmacokinetics (PK) of argirein might be changed in response to mitochondrial (MITO) dysfunction and activated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase (NOX) on hypoxia. We hypothesized that hypoxic changes in MITO and NOX could alter PK and tissue distribution of argirein. We tested if these changes in PK of argirein by hypoxia could be relieved by apocynin (APO), a blocker of NOX, through normalizing MITO and NOX.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to hypoxia (O2 10% ± 5% 8 h per day) for 7 days and treated with APO (80 mg/kg, i.g.) in the last 4 days. The PK and tissue distribution of argirein were monitored by measuring its main metabolite rhein using HPLC analysis. Manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and NOX were assayed.

Key findings

The PK parameters and concentrations of rhein in the kidney, liver, heart and testes were significantly altered under hypoxia, accompanied with a reduced MnSOD and upregulated NOX compared with the normal. Altered argirein PK and distribution in these organs were relieved following APO administration.

Conclusion

Abnormal PK and distribution of argirein by assaying its metabolite rhein are significant, consequent to hypoxic injury that is significantly ameliorated by APO through normalizing MITO and NOX.
Police officers’ views of their encounters with people with personality disorder
Authors: Martin T. , Thomas S.
Published: July 2013

Accessible summary

This paper reports police officers’ views of their encounters with people diagnosed with personality disorder and their frustration when referring the person to mental health services.

People diagnosed with personality disorder were described by police as behaving badly (suggesting a police response) and not being rational (suggesting a mental health response); however, the person generally fell into the crack between the services.

People with personality disorder were reported to take up considerable police time and other resources and cause the police considerable concern.

Mental health policy, legislation and service development need much improvement before effective collaboration with the police can take place to meet the needs of people diagnosed with personality disorder.

In Australia, people experiencing personality disorder have featured little in policing studies and policy or mental health policy and legislation, and in the absence of specific guidance their behaviours represent an ongoing challenge for police. This paper presents police officers’ accounts from a qualitative research project that explored police encounters with people experiencing mental illness. The officers singled out people with personality disorder and expressed frustration, anger, powerlessness and resignation with their referrals of this group to health services. Officers reported that emergency departments were reluctant to assess people with personality disorder and when they did assess them stated that the person did not meet criteria for admission to mental health services, or if admitted, they were quickly discharged. People with personality disorder were reported to take up considerable police resources. When police were told by mental health professionals that there was nothing they could do about people experiencing personality disorder, then the question from police was what was to be done with them. While pockets of collaborative practice exist between police and mental health services, much change is required to demonstrate that the needs of the person with personality disorder are being met.
Shifting the Paradigm: Using HIV Surveillance Data as a Foundation for Improving HIV Care and Preventing HIV Infection
Authors: SWEENEY PATRICIA , GARDNER LYTT I. , BUCHACZ KATE , GARLAND PAMELA MORSE , MUGAVERO MICHAEL J. , BOSSHART JEFFREY T. , SHOUSE R. LUKE , BERTOLLI JEANNE
Published: July 2013

Context

Reducing HIV incidence in the United States and improving health outcomes for people living with HIV hinge on improving access to highly effective treatment and overcoming barriers to continuous treatment. Using laboratory tests routinely reported for HIV surveillance to monitor individuals’ receipt of HIV care and contacting them to facilitate optimal care could help achieve these objectives. Historically, surveillance‐based public health intervention with individuals for HIV control has been controversial because of concerns that risks to privacy and autonomy could outweigh benefits. But with the availability of lifesaving, transmission‐interrupting treatment for HIV infection, some health departments have begun surveillance‐based outreach to facilitate HIV medical care.

Methods

Guided by ethics frameworks, we explored the ethical arguments for changing the uses of HIV surveillance data. To identify ethical, procedural, and strategic considerations, we reviewed the activities of health departments that are using HIV surveillance data to contact persons identified as needing assistance with initiating or returning to care.

Findings

Although privacy concerns surrounding the uses of HIV surveillance data still exist, there are ethical concerns associated with not using HIV surveillance to maximize the benefits from HIV medical care and treatment. Early efforts to use surveillance data to facilitate optimal HIV medical care illustrate how the ethical burdens may vary depending on the local context and the specifics of implementation. Health departments laid the foundation for these activities by engaging stakeholders to gain their trust in sharing sensitive information; establishing or strengthening legal, policy and governance infrastructure; and developing communication and follow‐up protocols that protect privacy.

Conclusions

We describe a shift toward using HIV surveillance to facilitate optimal HIV care. Health departments should review the considerations outlined before implementing new uses of HIV surveillance data, and they should commit to an ongoing review of activities with the objective of balancing beneficence, respect for persons, and justice.
Peptidoglycan hydrolysis is required for assembly and activity of the transenvelope secretion complex during sporulation in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Rodrigues Christopher D. A. , Marquis Kathleen A. , Meisner Jeffrey , Rudner David Z.
Published: July 2013

Sporulating Bacillus subtilis cells assemble a transenvelope secretion complex that connects the mother cell and developing spore. The forespore protein SpoIIQ and the mother‐cell protein SpoIIIAH interact across the double membrane septum and are thought to assemble into a channel that serves as the basement layer of this specialized secretion system. SpoIIQ is absolutely required to recruit SpoIIIAH to the sporulation septum on the mother‐cell side, however the mechanism by which SpoIIQ is localized has been unclear. Here, we show that SpoIIQ localization requires its partner protein SpoIIIAH and degradation of the septal peptidoglycan (PG) by the two cell wall hydrolases SpoIID and SpoIIP. Our data suggest that PG degradation enables a second mother‐cell‐produced protein to interact with SpoIIQ. Cells in which both mother‐cell anchoring mechanisms have been disabled have a synergistic sporulation defect suggesting that both localization factors function in the secretion complex. Finally, we show that septal PG degradation is critical for the assembly of an active complex. Altogether, these results suggest that the specialized secretion system that links the mother cell and forespore has a complexity approaching those found in Gram‐negative bacteria and reveal that the sporulating cell must overcome similar challenges in assembling a transenvelope complex.
Substrate specificity of an elongation‐specific peptidoglycan endopeptidase and its implications for cell wall architecture and growth of Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Dörr Tobias , Cava Felipe , Lam Hubert , Davis Brigid M. , Waldor Matthew K.
Published: July 2013

The bacterial cell wall consists of peptidoglycan (PG), a sturdy mesh of glycan strands cross‐linked by short peptides. This rigid structure constrains cell shape and size, yet is sufficiently dynamic to accommodate insertion of newly synthesized PG, which was long hypothesized, and recently demonstrated, to require cleavage of the covalent peptide cross‐links that couple previously inserted material. Here, we identify several genes in Vibrio cholerae that collectively are required for growth – particularly elongation – of this pathogen. V. cholerae encodes three putative periplasmic proteins, here denoted ShyA, ShyB, and ShyC, that contain both PG binding and M23 family peptidase domains. While none is essential individually, the absence of both ShyA and ShyC results in synthetic lethality, while the absence of ShyA and ShyB causes a significant growth deficiency. ShyA is a D,d‐endopeptidase able to cleave most peptide chain cross‐links in V. cholerae's PG. PG from a ∆shyA mutant has decreased average chain length, suggesting that ShyA may promote removal of short PG strands. Unexpectedly, ShyA has little activity against muropeptides containing pentapeptides, which typically characterize newly synthesized material. ShyA's substrate‐dependent activity may contribute to selection of cleavage sites in PG, whose implications for the process of side‐wall growth are discussed.
Toward decolonizing nursing: the colonization of nursing and strategies for increasing the counter‐narrative
Authors: McGibbon Elizabeth , Mulaudzi Fhumulani M , Didham Paula , Barton Sylvia , Sochan Ann
Published: July 2013

Although there are notable exceptions, examination of nursing's participation in colonizing processes and practices has not taken hold in nursing's consciousness or political agenda. Critical analyses, based on the examination of politics and power of the structural determinants of health, continue to be marginalized in the profession. The goals of this discussion article are to underscore the urgent need to further articulate postcolonial theory in nursing and to contribute to nursing knowledge about paths to work toward decolonizing the profession. The authors begin with a description of unifying themes in postcolonial theory, with an emphasis on colonized subjectivities and imperialism; the application of a critical social science perspective, including postcolonial feminist theory; and the project of working toward decolonization. Processes involved in the colonization of nursing are described in detail, including colonization of nursing's intellectual development and the white privilege and racism that sustain colonizing thinking and action in nursing. The authors conclude with strategies to increase the counter‐narrative to continued colonization, with a focus on critical social justice, human rights and the structural determinants of health.
Attenuation of rat chronic small bowel allograft rejection by n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids is associated with reduced expression of graft IL‐15
Authors: Wang Jian , Li Yousheng , Li Jieshou
Published: July 2013

Interleukin‐15 was found to play key roles in various immunological processes including chronic rejection after renal and cardiac transplantation. n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFA) have shown beneficial effects to chronic allograft rejection. The objective of this study is to search the possible mechanism of this inhibitory effect in chronic small bowel allograft rejection. Animals were divided into three groups: isograft (CsA + corn oil‐supplemented diet); allograft (CsA + corn oil‐supplemented diet); and allograft (CsA + fish oil‐supplemented diet). Donor intestines from F344 rats were transplanted orthotopically into Lewis rat recipients. CsA was administered at 5 mg/kg/day for 2 wk post‐operatively. Post‐transplant weight was recorded. Histopathological changes and graft IL‐15 expression were measured on POD 90. Chronic small bowel allograft rejection developed on POD 90. n‐3 PUFA significantly decreased the score of chronic rejection and increased the post‐operative weight gain rate. This attenuation is associated with reduced graft IL‐15 expression. n‐3 PUFA contributed to improved pathological and clinical outcome during chronic small bowel allograft rejection, and this improvement was associated with reduced graft IL‐15 expression.
A bidirectional approach for portal vein stent placement in a child with complete portal vein occlusion after living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Chen Cheng‐Yen , Tseng Hsiou‐Shan , Lin Niang‐Cheng , Wang Jen‐Bing , Tsai Hsin‐Lin , Loong Che‐Chuan , Hsia Cheng‐Yuan , Liu Chinsu
Published: July 2013

Delayed PV complications are not rare in pediatric liver transplantation. Although PTPV offers a treatment and minimizes surgical revision, in case of complete PV thrombosis (PVT), the failure rate of PTPV is high. Herein, we report a successful technique of PTPV in a case of complete PVT with a stent placement using a bidirectional approach in a child with living donor liver transplantation.
Involvement of a glucosinolate (sinigrin) in the regulation of water transport in Brassica oleracea grown under salt stress
Authors: Martínez‐Ballesta Maria del Carmen , Muries Beatriz , Moreno Diego Ángel , Dominguez‐Perles Raúl , García‐Viguera Cristina , Carvajal Micaela
Published: July 2013

Members of the Brassicaceae are known for their contents of nutrients and health‐promoting phytochemicals, including glucosinolates. The concentrations of these chemopreventive compounds (glucosinolate‐degradation products, the bioactive isothiocyanates) may be modified under salinity. In this work, the effect of the aliphatic glucosinolate sinigrin (2‐propenyl‐glucosinolate) on plant water balance, involving aquaporins, was explored under salt stress. For this purpose, water uptake and its transport through the plasma membrane were determined in plants after NaCl addition, when sinigrin was also supplied. We found higher hydraulic conductance (L0) and water permeability (Pf) and increased abundance of PIP2 aquaporins after the direct administration of sinigrin, showing the ability of the roots to promote cellular water transport across the plasma membrane in spite of the stress conditions imposed. The higher content of the allyl‐isothiocyanate and the absence of sinigrin in the plant tissues suggest that the isothiocyanate is related to water balance; in fact, a direct effect of this nitro‐sulphate compound on water uptake is proposed. This work provides the first evidence that the addition of a glucosinolate can regulate aquaporins and water transport: this effect and the mechanism(s) involved merit further investigation.
Exercise Training and Depression in ESRD: A Review
Authors: Mitrou Georgia I. , Grigoriou Stefania S. , Konstantopoulou Evi , Theofilou Paraskevi , Giannaki Christoforos D. , Stefanidis Ioannis , Karatzaferi Christina , Sakkas Giorgos K.
Published: July 2013

Depression, a mental disorder with a high personal, societal, and economic impact, affects at least 20–30% of patients receiving hemodialysis therapy. It is associated with a high mortality rate, low adherence to medication, and a low perceived quality of life. Exercise training is a promising nonpharmacological intervention that can be safely applied to these patients. Beyond the well‐publicized physiological benefits of exercise training, a number of studies have focused on the effects of exercise training on mental factors and quality of life parameters including its less appreciated effects on depression symptoms. This evidence‐based review article reviews and discusses the effects of exercise training on depression in end‐stage renal disease patients.
Hidden Behind Autophagy: The Unconventional Roles of ATG Proteins
Authors: Bestebroer Jovanka , V'kovski Philip , Mauthe Mario , Reggiori Fulvio
Published: July 2013

Macroautophagy (hereafter referred to as autophagy) is an evolutionarily conserved intracellular catabolic transport route that generally allows the lysosomal degradation of cytoplasmic components, including bulk cytosol, protein aggregates, damaged or superfluous organelles and invading microbes. Target structures are sequestered by double‐membrane vesicles called autophagosomes, which are formed through the concerted action of the autophagy (ATG)‐related proteins. Until recently it was assumed that ATG proteins were exclusively involved in autophagy. A growing number of studies, however, have attributed functions to some of them that are distinct from their classical role in autophagosome biogenesis. Autophagy‐independent roles of the ATG proteins include the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and resistance to pathogens. For example, they assist and enhance the turnover of dead cells and microbes upon their phagocytic engulfment, and inhibit murine norovirus replication. Moreover, bone resorption by osteoclasts, innate immune regulation triggered by cytoplasmic DNA and the ER‐associated degradation regulation all have in common the requirement of a subset of ATG proteins. Microorganisms such as coronaviruses, Chlamydia trachomatis or Brucella abortus have even evolved ways to manipulate autophagy‐independent functions of ATG proteins in order to ensure the completion of their intracellular life cycle. Taken together these novel mechanisms add to the repertoire of functions and extend the number of cellular processes involving the ATG proteins.
Acid‐citrate‐dextrose Formula A versus heparin as primary catheter lock solutions for therapeutic apheresis
Authors: Osby Melanie , Barton Pat , Lam Chun Nok , Tran Minh‐Ha
Published: July 2013

Background

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is a commonly used catheter lock solution, but may lead to various complications. Acid‐citrate‐dextrose Formula A (ACD‐A), the standard anticoagulant used in therapeutic apheresis (TA), is an alternative. We compared the efficacy of these two anticoagulants as primary catheter lock solutions.

Study Design and Methods

The following outcomes were analyzed retrospectively for all TA procedures performed between July 2009 and March 2012: patent, partial occlusion, total occlusion, catheter‐related blood stream infection, tissue plasminogen activator use, and premature catheter removal.

Results

Our primary data set included 5964 total catheter days, 3020 procedures, and 427 TA courses. The UFH group comprised 3444 catheter days and 1880 procedures; the ACD‐A group, 2520 catheter days and 1140 procedures. Overall catheter‐related outcomes differed by not more than 5.3% for the primary analysis and when stratified by short‐term (≤10 days) duration or short dwell times (<3 days). When stratified by long‐term duration (>10 days) and long dwell times (>3 days), differences increased to not more than 10.4 and 22.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

For short‐term courses and short dwell times, UFH and ACD‐A appear equally effective; UFH appears superior to ACD‐A in the setting of long‐term courses and long dwell times. Major catheter‐related complications were rare and occurred with similar frequency in both groups. For most indications, ACD‐A appears to be a reasonable alternative to heparin; however, an adequately powered, randomized trial would be required to definitively address this issue.
Combination therapy of deferasirox and deferoxamine shows significant improvements in markers of iron overload in a patient with β‐thalassemia major and severe iron burden
Authors: Voskaridou Ersi , Komninaka Veroniki , Karavas Antonis , Terpos Evangelos , Akianidis Vasilis , Christoulas Dimitrios
Published: July 2013

Background

Iron overload is a common complication of patients with β‐thalassemia major (TM). Despite the availability of three iron chelators, deferoxamine (DFO), deferiprone (DFP), and deferasirox (DFX), some patients fail to respond adequately to monotherapy with any of them. We report a case of TM who had refractory severe iron overload and was successfully and safely chelated with the combination of DFX with DFO.

Case Report

A 40‐year‐old male with β‐TM, who had been regularly transfused from the age of 2, had been administered in the past iron chelation with DFO, DFP, and DFX monotherapy, without major improvement on his iron overload status. Liver and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed severe iron overload, while serum ferritin was persistently greater than 2500 μg/L. After the patient gave informed consent, he was administered combination therapy of DFX at 30 mg/kg/day for 7 days per week and DFO at 2500 mg/day for 4 days every week and routinely followed up for compliance.

Results

Eighteen months later, serum ferritin was reduced to 680 μg/L, while both liver and cardiac MRI T2* values improved, reflecting lower iron overload. The combination regimen was well tolerated and no adverse events were documented.

Conclusion

This is the first official report of simultaneous daily administration of the two iron chelators DFX and DFO that demonstrates the beneficial effect of the combination on heart and liver hemosiderosis. If our observation is confirmed in more patients, this combination could constitute a useful option in tailoring individual chelation therapy for β‐TM patients with iron overload.