bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pandemic 2009 Influenza A (H1N1) Virus among Japanese Healthcare Workers: Seroprevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Nukui Yoko , Hatakeyama Shuji , Kitazawa Takatoshi , Mahira Tamami , Shintani Yoshizumi , Moriya Kyoji
Published: December 2011

Objective.

To evaluate the seroprevalence and risk factors for 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection among healthcare personnel.

Design.

Observational cross-sectional study.

Patients and Setting.

Healthcare workers (HCWs) in an acute care hospital.

Methods.

Between September 14 and October 4, 2009, before 2009 H1N1 vaccination, we collected serological samples from 461 healthy HCWs. Hemagglutination-inhibition antibody assays were conducted. To evaluate the risk factors of seropositivity for 2009 H1N1 virus, gender, age, profession, work department, usage of personal protective equipment, and seasonal influenza vaccination status data were gathered via questionnaires.

Results.

Our survey showed that doctors and nurses were at highest risk of seropositivity for the 2009 H1N1 virus (odds ratio [OR], 5.25 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 1.21–22.7]). An increased risk of seropositivity was observed among pediatric, emergency room, and internal medicine staff (adjusted OR, 1.98 [95% CI, 1.07–3.65]). Risk was also higher among HCWs who had high titers of antibodies against the seasonal H1N1 virus (adjusted OR, 1.59 [95% CI, 1.02–2.48]).

Conclusions.

Seropositivity for the 2009 H1N1 virus was associated with occupational risk factors among HCWs.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2012;33(1):58-62
Construction of a Plasmodium falciparum Rab‐interactome identifies CK1 and PKA as Rab‐effector kinases in malaria parasites
Authors: Rached Fathia Ben , Ndjembo‐Ezougou Carinne , Chandran Syama , Talabani Hana , Yera Hélène , Dandavate Vrushali , Bourdoncle Pierre , Meissner Markus , Tatu Utpal , Langsley Gordon
Published: December 2011

Background information

The pathology causing stages of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum reside within red blood cells that are devoid of any regulated transport system. The parasite, therefore, is entirely responsible for mediating vesicular transport within itself and in the infected erythrocyte cytoplasm, and it does so in part via its family of 11 Rab GTPases. Putative functions have been ascribed to Plasmodium Rabs due to their homology with Rabs of yeast, particularly with Saccharomyces that has an equivalent number of rab/ypt genes and where analyses of Ypt function is well characterized.

Results

Rabs are important regulators of vesicular traffic due to their capacity to recruit specific effectors. In order to identify P. falciparum Rab (PfRab) effectors, we first built a Ypt‐interactome by exploiting genetic and physical binding data available at the Saccharomyces genome database (SGD). We then constructed a PfRab‐interactome using putative parasite Rab‐effectors identified by homology to Ypt‐effectors. We demonstrate its potential by wet‐bench testing three predictions; that casein kinase‐1 (PfCK1) is a specific Rab5B interacting protein and that the catalytic subunit of cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A (PfPKA‐C) is a PfRab5A and PfRab7 effector.

Conclusions

The establishment of a shared set of physical Ypt/PfRab‐effector proteins sheds light on a core set Plasmodium Rab‐interactants shared with yeast. The PfRab‐interactome should benefit vesicular trafficking studies in malaria parasites. The recruitment of PfCK1 to PfRab5B+ and PfPKA‐C to PfRab5A+ and PfRab7+ vesicles, respectively, suggests that PfRab‐recruited kinases potentially play a role in early and late endosome function in malaria parasites.
Regulation of fas/fas ligand‐mediated apoptosis by nuclear factor of activated T cells in megakaryocytes
Authors: Arabanian Laleh S. , Kujawski Satu , Habermann Ivonne , Ehninger Gerhard , Kiani Alexander
Published: December 2011

Signal transduction pathways in megakaryocytes, a rare population of bone marrow cells, are poorly understood. We have previously shown that the calcineurin‐dependent transcription factor Nuclear Factor of Activated T cells (NFAT) is expressed in megakaryocytes and is required for the transcription of specific megakaryocytic genes. The biological role of NFAT in megakaryocytes, however, is unknown. Here we show that activation of the calcineurin/NFAT pathway in megakaryocytes forces the cells to go into apoptosis. Calcineurin/NFAT activation in megakaryocytes leads to membrane expression of Fas ligand (FASLG), a pro‐apoptotic member of the tumour necrosis factor superfamily. Expression of FASLG was augmented in cells stably overexpressing NFATC2 and suppressed in cells either pretreated with the calcineurin inhibitor ciclosporin A (CsA) or expressing the specific peptide inhibitor of NFAT, VIVIT. In cocultures with Fas‐expressing Jurkat T cells, the presence of activated megakaryocytic cells, but not of unstimulated cells or cells stimulated in the presence of CsA, significantly induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells in a Fas/FASLG‐ and NFAT‐dependent manner. These results represent the first evidence for a biological function of the calcineurin/NFAT pathway in megakaryocytes, and suggest that the biological role of megakaryocytes may include the induction of apoptosis in bystander cells.
Immunology in the clinic review series; focus on type 1 diabetes and viruses: role of antibodies enhancing the infection with Coxsackievirus-B in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Hober D , Sane F , Jaïdane H , Riedweg K , Goffard A , Desailloud R
Published: December 2011

OTHER THEMES PUBLISHED IN THIS IMMUNOLOGY IN THE CLINIC REVIEW SERIES

Metabolic diseases, host responses, cancer, autoinflammatory diseases, allergy.

Type 1 diabetes results from an interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Coxsackieviruses B (CV-B) are major environmental candidates, as suggested by epidemiological and experimental studies. The mechanisms leading to the disease involve interactions between the virus, host target tissue (pancreas) and the immune system. The infection of target cells with viruses can be prevented by antibodies. Conversely, the infection can be enhanced by antibodies. The antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE) of infection has been described with various viruses, especially Picornaviruses. In mice infected with CV-B3 this phenomenon resulted in an extended inflammatory reaction and myocarditis. In the human system non-neutralizing antibodies can increase the infection of monocytes with CV-B4 and stimulate the production of interferon (IFN)-α by these cells in vitro. CV-B4/immunoglobulin (Ig)G immune complexes interacted with a specific viral receptor [Coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR)] and with IgG Fc fraction receptors (FcγRII and FcγRIII) at the surface of monocytes. The virus–antibody complexes are internalized (CAR) and receptors for the Fc of IgG (FcγRII and FcγRIII). Such antibodies have been detected in patients with type 1 diabetes and they could be responsible for the presence of enteroviral RNA and IFN-α in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of these individuals. The target of enhancing antibodies has been identified as the VP4 protein, which allowed the detection of these antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It cannot be excluded that antibodies enhancing the infection with CV-B may play a role in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, induced or aggravated by these viruses. They can cause a viral escape from the immune response and may participate in the spreading of viruses to β cells. Whether enhancing antibodies raised against VP4 can play a role in iterative homologous and/or heterologous CV-B infections and in the persistence of viruses within the host deserves further study.
Stat3: Linking inflammation to (gastrointestinal) tumourigenesis
Authors: Ernst Matthias , Putoczki Tracy L
Published: December 2011

Tumourigenesis is a multistage process comprising initiation, promotion and progression that is governed by cumulative (epi‐)genetic changes. However, tumour initiation, triggered by mutations in proto‐oncogenes and/or tumour suppressor genes, is insufficient for the development of cancers. Tumour promotion often depends on the interaction between initiated cells and the microenvironment where an excessive abundance of inflammatory mediators, including those of the interleukin (IL‐)6/glycoprotein 130 (gp130) family, promote their expansion.

The activity of most soluble mediators ultimately converges on tumour cells through activation of the latent transcription factors nuclear factor (NF)‐κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat) 3 to enhance survival of neoplastic cells. In addition, Stat3 promotes tumour cell proliferation, invasion and induction of an angiogenic switch.

Persistent activation of STAT3 is a unifying hallmark of a majority of solid malignancies. However, persistent STAT3 activation usually occurs in the absence of activating mutations in, or amplification of, the STAT3 gene. Instead, it is associated with an oversupply of autocrine and/or paracrine activating cytokines secreted by tumour and stromal cells and comprising (among others) cytokines that use the gp130 receptor.

Interleukin‐6, IL‐11 and other members of the gp130 cytokine family have been identified in preclinical mouse models as promising therapeutic targets for gastrointestinal, hepatic and breast cancers. Thus, pharmacological interference with specific cytokines and tyrosine kinases that trigger Stat3 activation affords opportunities to therapeutically target the non‐redundant tumour‐promoting signalling function of Stat3.
Outcome of implantable cardioverter defibrillator therapy for congenital heart disease
Authors: Uyeda Tomomi , Inoue Kanki , Sato Junichiro , Mizukami Ayumi , Yoshikawa Tadahiro , Wada Naoki , Ando Makoto , Takahashi Yukihiro , Umemura Jun , Park In‐Sam
Published: December 2011

Background:  The use of implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) therapy for congenital heart disease (CHD) has been increasing, but few studies have reported on the efficacy of ICD therapy in Japanese CHD patients.

Method:  Twelve CHD patients (median age, 35 years) with first ICD implantation were examined. Median follow‐up duration was 2.9 years. Demographic information, implant electrical parameters, appropriate and inappropriate discharge data and complications were recorded for all implants from 2003 to 2010.

Results:  Implant indication was primary prevention in two patients and secondary prevention in 10. Overall four patients received one or more discharges; three patients (25%) with secondary prevention received nine appropriate discharges. Inappropriate discharge attributed to sinus tachycardia occurred in two patients (16.7%). Only one patient experienced the late complication of skin erosion at the generator implantation site.

Conclusions:  Patients with CHD experienced significant rates of appropriate discharges and lower complications. But given that the indications of ICD implantation were mostly for secondary prevention, the ratio of appropriate shocks might be lower than in previous studies. In the primary prevention patients, the benefit of ICD was not clear because no appropriate discharges were seen during follow up. Although ICD implantation for CHD is beneficial for preventing sudden cardiac death, careful decision making and a large, long‐term prospective study is required for the determination of the efficacy of ICD therapy in Japanese patients with CHD.
Retrospective clinical and laboratory evaluation of children with brucellosis
Authors: Okur Mesut , Erbey Fatih , Bektaş Mehmet Selçuk , kaya Avni , Doğan Murat , Acar Mehmet Nuri , Uzun Hakan
Published: December 2011

Background:  Acute brucellosis is a zoonotic disease seen in childhood, with non‐specific complaints and clinical findings that can affect the locomotor, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, hematologic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and central nervous systems. Particularly in endemic regions, it occurs as a result of consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products. In this study, clinical and laboratory findings of children with acute brucellosis are presented.

Methods:  Data for 147 patients, aged 2–16 years, were evaluated retrospectively.

Results:  The most frequent complaints and clinical findings were abdominal pain and fever. Other complaints and clinical findings included arthralgia, myalgia, loss of appetite, weakness, sweating, fatigue, headache, arthritis, hepatomegaly, and splenomegaly. Anemia was the most frequent hematological abnormality detected; other abnormalities included leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, and pancytopenia.

Conclusion:  Childhood brucellosis can cause non‐specific complaints and particularly anemia and leukopenia as hematological abnormalities. It is easily treated, however, with appropriate antibiotics.
Role of angiotensin and endothelin in testicular ischemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Turkili Burak , Kurcer Zehra , Dengiz Gunnur Ozbakis , Kandemir Nilufer Onak , Mungan Gorkem , Ozacmak Veysel Haktan , Banoglu Zekiye Nur
Published: December 2011

Objectives:  To determine whether angiotensin and endothelin have any role in testicular ischemia reperfusion injury by investigating the effects of the angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor enalapril, selective non‐peptide angiotensin‐II type I blocker losartan and dual endothelin receptor blocker bosentan.

Methods:  Rats were anesthetized with thiopental sodium (50 mg/kg i.p.) before the operation. The left testicular artery and vein of rats were occluded for 1 h; before the bilateral orchiectomy, the organ was allowed to reperfuse for 3 h or 24 h. Enalapril (20 mg/kg i.p.), losartan (30 mg/kg i.p.), bosentan (10 mg/kg i.p.) or vehicle (saline) were given 30 min before reperfusion. Malondialdehyde level was measured in testicular tissue after 3 h of reperfusion. Histological examination was carried out after 24 h of reperfusion.

Results:  Ischemia reperfusion caused a significant increase in malondialdehyde level of ipsilateral testis, and histopathological injury in both ipsilateral and contralateral testes. Enalapril, losartan and bosentan treatments prevented the ischemia reperfusion‐induced augmentation in malondialdehyde levels. Only bosentan treatment ameloriated ischemia reperfusion‐induced histopathological alterations.

Conclusions:  Endothelin might play a more important role in pathogenesis of testicular ischemia reperfusion injury when compared with angiotensin.
Innovation management techniques and development degree of innovation process in service organizations
Authors: D'Alvano Luigi , Hidalgo Antonio
Published: December 2011

Service markets are becoming global, open and competitive. Knowledge is more available, technology more complex and service life‐cycles are shortening. In order to satisfy this challenge, more innovation management tools are required to get better and more successful new or improved products and services. This paper analyzes the relationship between the use of innovation management tools (IMT) and the degree of development of innovation process through the application of a five phase innovation model (TEMAGUIDE). This is undertaken in a group of service organizations from three sectors: trade, healthcare and education. The sequence of the innovation process development is defined between activities and use of innovation tools. Results show that activities and practices are more developed than use of innovation management tools, and also show that leading innovation organizations have a higher use of IMT.
Giant basal cell carcinoma of the skin: literature review and personal experience
Authors: Zoccali G. , Pajand R. , Papa P. , Orsini G. , Lomartire N. , Giuliani M.
Published: December 2011

As the most common form of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is typified by locally infiltrative growth and a very low risk of metastasis. On occasion, however, this otherwise indolent neoplasm may behave aggressively, demonstrating deep tissue invasion and a high rate of postsurgical recurrence. The pathogenesis and determinants of such tenacious growth are not completely understood. Only 1% of all BCC’s achieve the status of ‘giant’, as defined in 1988 by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. In this article, the authors provide a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on giant basal cell carcinoma (GBCC) of the skin and report their experience with this rare tumour subtype.
Biogas from Farm‐based Biomass Sources  Developments in Europe and the US Le biogaz dérivé de la biomasse d’origine agricole  Développements en Europe et aux États‐Unis  Biogas aus Biomasse von landwirtschaftlichen Betrieben  Entwicklungen in Europa und den USA
Authors: Hjort‐Gregersen Kurt , Blandford David , Gooch Curt A.
Published: December 2011

summary

Biogas from Farm‐based Biomass Sources Developments in Europe and the US

One option for bio‐energy production is biogas derived from anaerobic digestion of farm‐based biomass, primarily livestock manure and energy crops, and from other organic sources, such as sewage and municipal waste. Biogas can contribute to reducing emissions of greenhouse gases, particularly methane, and improving water quality through the transformation of organic waste into fertiliser with less potential for nutrient run‐off. There has been considerable activity in the exploitation of biogas in Europe. On‐farm and centralised heating or power systems fuelled by biogas have been developed in several countries and some of the product has been injected into the natural gas distribution grid or used as vehicle fuel after further processing. In the US most of the development of biogas capacity has been associated with the processing of animal manure, particularly on dairy farms. Policies, such as preferential tariffs for electricity generated from renewable fuels, have played an important role in the development of biogas capacity. Future energy and climate change policies will be major factors in its further development. While biogas seems likely to play a relatively modest role in meeting future energy needs in Europe and the US, it can play a role in the management of organic waste.
The Use of Biomass to Produce Electricity  Utiliser la biomasse pour produire de l’électricité Die Verwendung von Biomasse zur Stromerzeugung
Authors: Brännlund Runar , Boisvert Richard N.
Published: December 2011

summary

The Use of Biomass to Produce Electricity

The use of biomass to produce electricity has received much less attention than biofuels in the EU and the US. However, the production of bioelectricity has been increasing, especially in Europe. Bioelectricity has an advantage over some other renewable sources, such as wind or solar, in maintaining the ability of generators to respond more easily to fluctuating electricity demand. However, with current prices for other primary fuels there is limited availability of biomass supplies at prices generators are willing to pay. Bioelectricity production is influenced by policies for promoting the use of renewable energy and other policies, such as those relating to greenhouse gas emissions. Various incentive schemes are in place in the EU and US, such as feed‐in tariffs that guarantee favourable purchase prices for renewables, and Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) requiring that renewables constitute minimum percentages of electricity generation or Green Certificates which promote the use of renewables. The future development of bioelectricity will be determined by the form and magnitude of policy incentives and by prices for fossil fuels. Feedstock availability will only be assured if there are coordinated efforts at regional and local levels to develop the transportation and other infrastructure needed to create well‐functioning biomass markets.
Noninvasive imaging of bone microarchitecture
Authors: Patsch Janina M. , Burghardt Andrew J. , Kazakia Galateia , Majumdar Sharmila
Published: December 2011

The noninvasive quantification of peripheral compartment‐specific bone microarchitecture is feasible with high‐resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR‐pQCT) and high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR‐MRI). In addition to classic morphometric indices, both techniques provide a suitable basis for virtual biomechanical testing using finite element (FE) analyses. Methodical limitations, morphometric parameter definition, and motion artifacts have to be considered to achieve optimal data interpretation from imaging studies. With increasing availability of in vivo high‐resolution bone imaging techniques, special emphasis should be put on quality control including multicenter, cross‐site validations. Importantly, conclusions from interventional studies investigating the effects of antiosteoporotic drugs on bone microarchitecture should be drawn with care, ideally involving imaging scientists, translational researchers, and clinicians.
CO2 Separation From Combined Cycles Using Molten Carbonate Fuel Cells
Authors: Manzolini G. , Campanari S. , Chiesa P. , Giannotti A. , Bedont P. , Parodi F.
Published: December 2011

This paper presents an analysis of advanced cycles with limited CO2 emissions based onthe integration of molten carbonate fuel cells (MCFCs) in natural gas fired combined cycles (NGCC) in order to efficiently capture CO2 from the exhaust of the gas turbine. In the proposed cycles, the gas turbine flue gases are used as cathode feeding for a MCFC, where CO2 is transferred from the cathode to anode side, concentrating the CO2 in the anode exhaust. At the anode side, the MCFCs are fed with natural gas, processed by an external reformer which is thermally integrated within the FC module; the corresponding CO2 production is completely concentrated at the anode. The resulting anode exhaust stream is then sent to a CO2 removal section which is based on a cryogenic CO2 removal process, based on internal or external refrigeration cycles, cooling the exhaust stream in the heat recovery steam generator and recycling residual fuel compounds to the power cycle. In all cases, a high purity CO2 stream is obtained after condensation of water and pumped in liquid form for subsequent storage. The possibility to arrange the MCFC section with different configurations and operating parameters of the fuel cell modules is investigated, and the option to include two fuel cell modules in series connection, with intermediate cooling of the cathode stream, in order to enhance the plant CO2 separation effectiveness, is also examined. The MCFC section behavior is simulated taking into account Ansaldo Fuel Cells experience and reference data based on a dedicated simulation tool. Detailed energy and material balances of the most promising cycle configurations are presented; fuel cell and conventional components’ working parameters are described and discussed, carrying out a sensitivity analysis on the fuel cell CO2 utilization factor. The plant shows the potential to achieve a CO2 avoided fraction approaching 70–80%, depending on the CO2 concentration limit at cathode outlet, with overall electric efficiency only 1–2% points lower than the reference combined cycle. The plant power output increases by over 40%, thanks to the contributions of the MCFC section which acts as an active CO2 concentrator, giving a potentially relevant advantage with respect to competitive carbon capture technologies.
Design of a Membraneless Passive Planar Four-Cell Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell
Authors: Ma Jinfu , Liu Yongning
Published: December 2011

The use of noble catalysts and ion exchange membranes make the design of a direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC) stack complicate and limit its application. Therefore, the development of simple, cost effective construction for DBFC stacks is necessary. In this paper, a passive DBFC stack that consists of four unit cells was designed, fabricated, and tested. The stack eliminated the need for a polyelectrolyte membrane because of the use of a metal phthalocyanine catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which has a high borohydride tolerance. The electrochemical experiments show that the stack can obtain open-circuit-voltage (OCV) of 3.6 V and the maximal power of 400 mW at 1.5 V at ambient temperature. In addition, the DBFC stack was successfully applied to power a radio, which can continuously run for about 3 h on refueling 8 mL 1 M borohydride solution.
Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance among Clinical Isolates of Bacteroides fragilis Group in Canada in 2010-2011: CANWARD Surveillance Study
Authors: Karlowsky James A. , Walkty Andrew J. , Adam Heather J. , Baxter Melanie R. , Hoban Daryl J. , Zhanel George G.
Published: December 2011

Clinical isolates of the
Bacteroides fragilis
group (
n
= 387) were collected from patients attending nine Canadian hospitals in 2010-2011 and tested for susceptibility to 10 antimicrobial agents using the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) broth microdilution method.
B. fragilis
(59.9%),
Bacteroides ovatus
(16.3%), and
Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
(12.7%) accounted for ∼90% of isolates collected. Overall rates of percent susceptibility were as follows: 99.7%, metronidazole; 99.5%, piperacillin-tazobactam; 99.2%, imipenem; 97.7%, ertapenem; 92.0%, doripenem; 87.3%, amoxicillin-clavulanate; 80.9%, tigecycline; 65.9%, cefoxitin; 55.6%, moxifloxacin; and 52.2%, clindamycin. Percent susceptibility to cefoxitin, clindamycin, and moxifloxacin was lowest for
B. thetaiotaomicron
(
n
= 49, 24.5%),
Parabacteroides distasonis
/
P. merdae
(
n
= 11, 9.1%), and
B. ovatus
(
n
= 63, 31.8%), respectively. One isolate (
B. thetaiotaomicron
) was resistant to metronidazole, and two isolates (both
B. fragilis
) were resistant to both piperacillin-tazobactam and imipenem. Since the last published surveillance study describing Canadian isolates of
B. fragilis
group almost 20 years ago (A.-M. Bourgault et al., Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 36:343–347, 1992), rates of resistance have increased for amoxicillin-clavulanate, from 0.8% (1992) to 6.2% (2010-2011), and for clindamycin, from 9% (1992) to 34.1% (2010-2011).
Trends in the Susceptibility of Clinically Important Resistant Bacteria to Tigecycline: Results from the Tigecycline
In Vitro
Surveillance in Taiwan Study, 2006 to 2010
Authors: Chen Yen-Hsu , Lu Po-Liang , Huang Cheng-Hua , Liao Chun-Hsing , Lu Chin-Te , Chuang Yin-Ching , Tsao Shih-Ming , Chen Yao-Shen , Liu Yung-Ching , Chen Wei-Yu , Jang Tsrang-Neng , Lin Hsiu-Chen , Chen Chih-Ming , Shi Zhi-Yuan , Pan Sung-Ching , Yang Jia-Ling , Kung Hsiang-Chi , Liu Chun-Eng , Cheng Yu-Jen , Liu Jien-Wei , Sun Wu , Wang Lih-Shinn , Ko Wen-Chien , Yu Kwok-Woon , Chiang Ping-Cherng , Lee Ming-Hsun , Lee Chun-Ming , Hsu Gwo-Jong , Hsueh Po-Ren
Published: December 2011

The Tigecycline
In Vitro
Surveillance in Taiwan (TIST) study, a nationwide, prospective surveillance during 2006 to 2010, collected a total of 7,793 clinical isolates, including methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) (
n
= 1,834), penicillin-resistant
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(PRSP) (
n
= 423), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) (
n
= 219), extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing
Escherichia coli
(
n
= 1,141), ESBL-producing
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(
n
= 1,330),
Acinetobacter baumannii
(
n
= 1,645), and
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
(
n
= 903), from different specimens from 20 different hospitals in Taiwan. MICs of tigecycline were determined following the criteria of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST-2011). Among drug-resistant Gram-positive pathogens, all of the PRSP isolates were susceptible to tigecycline (MIC
90
, 0.03 μg/ml), and only one MRSA isolate (MIC
90
, 0.5 μg/ml) and three VRE isolates (MIC
90
, 0.125 μg/ml) were nonsusceptible to tigecycline. Among the Gram-negative bacteria, the tigecycline susceptibility rates were 99.65% for ESBL-producing
E. coli
(MIC
90
, 0.5 μg/ml) and 96.32% for ESBL-producing
K. pneumoniae
(MIC
90
, 2 μg/ml) when interpreted by FDA criteria but were 98.7% and 85.8%, respectively, when interpreted by EUCAST-2011 criteria. The susceptibility rate for
A. baumannii
(MIC
90
, 4 μg/ml) decreased from 80.9% in 2006 to 55.3% in 2009 but increased to 73.4% in 2010. A bimodal MIC distribution was found among carbapenem-susceptible
A. baumannii
isolates, and a unimodal MIC distribution was found among carbapenem-nonsusceptible
A. baumannii
isolates. In Taiwan, tigecycline continues to have excellent
in vitro
activity against several major clinically important drug-resistant bacteria, with the exception of
A. baumannii
.
A Global Atmospheric Analysis Dataset Downscaled from the NCEP–DOE Reanalysis
Authors: Kim Jung-Eun , Hong Song-You
Published: December 2011

A global atmospheric analysis dataset is constructed via a spectral nudging technique. The 6-hourly National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP)–Department of Energy (DOE) reanalysis from January 1979 to February 2011 is utilized to force large-scale information, whereas a higher-resolution structure is resolved by a global model with improved physics. The horizontal resolution of the downscaled data is about 100 km, twice that of the NCEP–DOE reanalysis.

A comparison of the 31-yr downscaled data with reanalysis data and observations reveals that the downscaled precipitation climatology is improved by correcting inherent biases in the lower-resolution reanalysis, and large-scale patterns are preserved. In addition, it is found that global downscaling is an efficient way to generate high-quality analysis data due to the use of a higher-resolution model with improved physics. The uniqueness of the obtained data lies in the fact that an undesirable decadal trend in the analysis due to a change in the amount of observations used in reanalysis is avoided. As such, a downscaled dataset may be used to investigate changes in the hydrological cycle and related mechanisms.
Turbulent Mixing and Exchange with Interior Waters on Sloping Boundaries
Authors: Kunze Eric , MacKay Chris , McPhee-Shaw Erika E. , Morrice Katie , Girton James B. , Terker Samantha R.
Published: December 2011

Microstructure measurements along the axes of Monterey and Soquel Submarine Canyons reveal 200–300-m-thick well-stratified turbulent near-bottom layers with average turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates 〈ɛ〉 = 4 × 10−8 W kg−1 and eddy diffusivities K = 16 × 10−4 m2 s−1 (assuming mixing efficiency γ = 0.2) to at least thalweg depths of 1200 m. Turbulent dissipation rates are an order of magnitude lower in overlying waters, whereas buoyancy frequencies are only 25% higher. Well-mixed bottom boundary layer thicknesses hN are an order of magnitude thinner than the stratified turbulent layer (hN ≪ hɛ). Because well-stratified turbulent layers are commonly observed above slopes, arguments that mixing efficiency should be reduced on sloping boundaries do not hold in cases of energetic internal-wave generation or interaction with topography. An advective–diffusive balance is used to infer velocities and transports, predicting horizontal upslope flows of 10–50 m day−1. Extrapolating this estimate globally suggests that canyon turbulence may contribute 2–3 times as much diapycnal transport to the World Ocean as interior mixing. The upcanyon turbulence-driven transports are not uniform, and the resulting upslope convergences will drive exchange between the turbulent layer and more quiescent interior. Predicted density surfaces of detrainment and entrainment are consistent with observed isopycnals of intermediate nepheloid and clear layers. These data demonstrate that turbulent mixing dynamics on sloping topography are fundamentally 2D or 3D in the ocean, so they cannot be accurately described by 1D models.
Ambivalence Reduction and Polarization in the Campaign Information Environment
Authors: Kim Young Mie , Wang Ming , Gotlieb Melissa R. , Gabay Itay , Edgerly Stephanie
Published: December 2011

This study examines how the campaign information environment influences individuals’ ambivalence reduction and polarization. Based on the 2008 presidential television campaign advertising data and individuals’ electoral behavior data in 208 designated market areas nationwide, this study utilizes multilevel modeling to better understand the interactions between the effects of individual-level predispositions and that of the contextual-level campaign information environment. The findings of the study indicate that the campaign information environment does matter in ambivalence reduction and polarization. Individuals living in a media market where the volume of campaign advertising is relatively high are less ambivalent and more polarized in candidate evaluations. The patterns appear to be amplified among partisans, suggesting the campaign information environment functions as a “motivator.” The partisan bias of the ads in a media market, however, exerts only limited influence. The implications for the functioning of democracy are discussed.
Service Utilization, Perceived Changes of Self, and Life Satisfaction Among Women Who Experienced Intimate Partner Abuse
Authors: Song Li-yu
Published: December 2011

This study explored the growth experiences of women abused by their intimate partner, specifically focusing on the associations between social services and empowerment, perceived changes of self, and life satisfaction. The potential effects of demographic variables, social support, coping, and experience of partner abuse were also explored. A survey study was conducted through the collaboration of social workers in the Centers of Prevention and Intervention for Domestic Violence and private sectors in Taiwan. Through contact by their social workers, 191 participants completed the questionnaires. The results revealed that the participants had growth mainly in their psychological and interpersonal domains. The independent variables in the regression model explained 45.3% (adjusted) variance in perceived changes of self. In addition to empowerment and negative impact of violence, intensity of contact and professional relationship were two important service variables that directly and significantly correlated with perceived changes of self. A significant amount of variance (adjusted R2 = .556) in life satisfaction could be explained by the independent variables. Social support and empowerment directly correlated with life satisfaction. The findings also supported the mediation effect of empowerment. Seven variables (e.g., social support, coping method, and professional relationship) indirectly associated with perceived changes of self and life satisfaction through empowerment.
The Role of Gender in Officially Reported Intimate Partner Abuse
Authors: Melton Heather C. , Sillito Carrie Lefeve
Published: December 2011

The role of gender in intimate partner abuse (IPA) perpetration and victimization has been debated for the last several decades. Two perspectives have emerged regarding this debate. Researchers from the family violence perspective argue that men and women are violent at near equal rates and call for a reframing of the issue from one of woman battering to one of family violence. In contrast, feminist researchers maintain that men make up the majority of perpetrators and women the majority of victims in cases of intimate partner abuse. While some have put forth arguments explaining these differences, this debate is far from over. Using official reported cases of IPA, this study examines 815 IPA cases of which 13% were female perpetrated in an attempt to clarify gender differences and similarities among male and female offenders beyond prevalence rates. Special attention is paid to contextual differences and similarities and implications this research has for future research and policy.
A Mixed Methods Study of Participant Reaction to Domestic Violence Research in Jordan
Authors: Clark Cari Jo , Shahrouri Manal , Halasa Louma , Khalaf Inaam , Spencer Rachael , Everson-Rose Susan
Published: December 2011

Research on domestic violence against women has increased considerably over the past few decades. Most participants in such studies find the exercise worthwhile and of greater benefit than emotional cost; however, systematic examination of participant reaction to research on violence is considerably lacking, especially in the Middle East region. This study begins to fill this gap by examining women’s reactions to domestic violence research in Jordan and whether a personal history of violence is associated with unfavorable experiences. This sequential exploratory mixed methods study included 17 focus group discussions (FGD) with women in Amman followed by a survey conducted in reproductive health clinics throughout the country (pilot n = 30; survey n = 517). Open coding was used to identify the theme related to participant reaction in the FGD data. This construct was further examined by the subsequent survey that included dichotomous questions inquiring whether the respondent thought the study questions were important and whether they were angry or felt resentment as a result of the survey. One open-ended question on the survey provided additional qualitative data on the theme that was combined with the FGD data. Themes identified in the qualitative data pertained to expressions of gratitude and comments on the survey’s value. Findings of this study indicate that Jordanian women’s responses to the research process are similar to women currently represented by the extant literature in that a vast majority of its participants felt that the study was important (95%) and it did not evoke anger or resentment (96%). Many even found the study to be useful to them personally or to society. Among those who had a negative emotional reaction, most still found the research to be important. This study’s findings highlight the safety and potential benefits of ethically conducted violence research.
Examining Self-Protection Measures Guarding Adult Protective Services Social Workers Against Compassion Fatigue
Authors: Bourassa Dara
Published: December 2011

Little research has focused on the risk factors, effects, and experiences of compassion fatigue among gerontological social workers. This qualitative study explores the experiences and perspectives of nine Adult Protective Services (APS) social workers in relation to compassion fatigue. Results show that the APS social workers combined personal characteristics and professional factors to develop boundary-setting mechanisms that protected them from experiencing the deleterious symptoms and effects of compassion fatigue. Implications center around the elements needed to implement boundaries in order to maintain a separation between the work and home environment. Suggestions for future research are provided.
Relations of Perceived Parent and Friend Support for Recreational Reading With Children’s Reading Motivations
Authors: Klauda Susan Lutz , Wigfield Allan
Published: December 2011

This study examined elementary school students’ perceived support for recreational reading from their mothers, fathers, and friends. Participants, including 130 fourth graders and 172 fifth graders, completed the researcher-developed Reading Support Survey, which assesses how often children experience and how greatly they enjoy multiple types of reading-supportive behaviors. The survey was based on a synthesis of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research on older children’s experiences of support for recreational reading. Theories emphasizing the importance of social factors in the development of reading motivation and attitudes and domain-general theories of motivation and social support also influenced the survey design and study hypotheses. Perceived reading support showed four underlying dimensions, two reflecting source of support and two reflecting type of support as the organizing element. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses demonstrated that perceived parent and friend support each contributed uniquely to the prediction of multiple dimensions of self-reported reading motivation and frequency, controlling for reading achievement, gender, and grade level. Children perceived greater reading support from their mothers than from their fathers or friends. There were few differences in perceived reading support, reading motivation, or habits by gender or grade level. The findings of this study expand the research base on the relations of children’s experiences of parental support for reading with reading motivation and activity, which has largely focused on preschool and primary-grade children, to older children.
Leaving the Militarized Frontier
Authors: McDuie-Ra Duncan
Published: December 2011

In this article, the author examines the challenges to masculinity prompted by migration from the Northeast frontier of India to the capital city Delhi. Northeast India has been characterized by insurgency, counterinsurgency, and ethno-nationalism since Indian Independence in 1947. In this militarized environment, masculinity has been shaped by historical constructions of a warrior past fused with contemporary constructions based on ethno-nationalism and armed struggle. A dramatic increase in migration out of the region by young men and women to the urban centers of India to work in the retail and call center industries poses a major challenge as it ruptures the masculine norms of home. In response, men attempt to enforce these masculine norms with varied results. At the same time, new expressions of masculinity are evolving alongside conventional expressions demonstrating the fluidity of masculinity even among men from a region where masculine norms appear rigid.
Targeting the hemangioblast with a novel cell type-specific enhancer
Authors: Teixeira Vera , Arede Natacha , Gardner Rui , Rodríguez-León Joaquín , Tavares Ana T
Published: December 2011

Background

Hemangioblasts are known as the common precursors for primitive hematopoietic and endothelial lineages. Their existence has been supported mainly by the observation that both cell types develop in close proximity and by in vitro differentiation and genetic studies. However, more compelling evidence will arise from tracking their cell fates using a lineage-specific marker.

Results

We report the identification of a hemangioblast-specific enhancer (Hb) located in the cis-regulatory region of chick Cerberus gene (cCer) that is able to direct the expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) to the precursors of yolk sac blood and endothelial cells in electroporated chick embryos. Moreover, we present the Hb-eGFP reporter as a powerful live imaging tool for visualizing hemangioblast cell fate and blood island morphogenesis.

Conclusions

We hereby introduce the Hb enhancer as a valuable resource for genetically targeting the hemangioblast population as well as for studying the dynamics of vascular and blood cell development.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Baicalein mediates inhibition of migration and invasiveness of skin carcinoma through Ezrin in A431 cells
Authors: Wu Bin , Li Ji , Huang Damao , Wang Weiwei , Chen Yu , Liao Youxiang , Tang Xiaowei , Xie Hongfu , Tang Faqing
Published: December 2011

Background

Ezrin is highly expressed in skin cancer and promotes tumor metastasis. Ezrin serves as a promising target for anti-metastasis therapy. The aim of this study is to determine if the flavonoid bacailein inhibits the metastasis of skin cancer cells through Ezrin.

Methods

Cells from a cutaneous squamous carcinoma cell line, A431, were treated with baicalein at 0-60 μM to establish the non-cytotoxic concentration (NCC) range for baicalein. Following treatment with baicalein within this range, total Ezrin protein (both phosphorylated and unphosphorylated forms) and phosphorylated-Ezrin (phos-Ezrin) were detected by western blotting, and Ezrin RNA was detected in A431 cells using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Thereafter, the motility and invasiveness of A431 cells following baicalein treatment were determined using wound-healing and Boyden chamber invasion assays. Short-interfering RNA (si-RNA) specifically targeting Ezrin was transfected into A431 cells, and a si-RNA Ezrin-A431 cell line was established by G418 selection. This stable cell line was transiently transfected with Ezrin and mutant Ezrin plasmids, and its motilityand invasiveness was subsequently determined to clarify whether bacailein inhibits these processes through Ezrin.

Results

We determined the range of NCCs for baicalein to be 2.5-40 μM in A431 cells. Baicalein displayed a dose- and time-dependent inhibition of expressions of total Ezrin and phos-Ezrin within this range NCCs. In addition, it exerted this inhibitory effect through the reduction of Ezrin RNA transcript. Baicalein also inhibited the motility and invasiveness of A431 skin carcinoma cells within the range of NCCs, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. A431 cell motility and invasiveness were inhibited by 73% and 80% respectively when cells were treated with 20 μM baicalein. However, the motility and invasiveness of A431 cells containing the Ezrin mutant were not effectively inhibited by baicalein.

Conclusions

Baicalein reduces the migration and invasiveness of A431 cells through the inhibition of Ezrin expression, which leads to the suppression of tumor metastasis.
Long-term prognosis of breast cancer detected by mammography screening or other methods
Authors: Lehtimäki Tiina , Lundin Mikael , Linder Nina , Sihto Harri , Holli Kaija , Turpeenniemi-Hujanen Taina , Kataja Vesa , Isola Jorma , Joensuu Heikki , Lundin Johan
Published: December 2011

Introduction

Previous studies of breast cancer have shown that patients whose tumors are detected by mammography screening have a more favorable survival. Little is known, however, about the long-term prognostic impact of screen detection. The purpose of the current study was to compare breast cancer-specific long-term survival of patients whose tumors were detected in mammography screening compared with those whose tumors were detected by other methods.

Methods

Breast cancer patients diagnosed within five specified geographical areas in Finland in 1991 and 1992 were identified (N = 2,936). Detailed clinical, treatment and outcome data, as well as tissue samples, were collected. Women with in situ carcinoma, distant metastases at the time of primary diagnosis and women who were not treated surgically were excluded. The main analyses were performed after excluding patients with other malignancy or contralateral breast cancer, followed by sensitivity analyses with different exclusion criteria. Median follow-up time was 15.4 years. Univariate and multivariate analyses of breast cancer-specific survival were performed.

Results

Of patients included in the main analyses (n = 1,884), 22% (n = 408) of cancers were screen-detected and 78% (n = 1,476) were detected by other methods. Breast cancer-specific 15-year survival was 86% for patients with screen-detected cancer and 66% for patients diagnosed using other methods (P < 0.0001, HR = 2.91). Similar differences in survival were observed in women at screening age (50 to 69 years), as well as in clinically important subgroups, such as patients with small tumors (≤ 1 cm in diameter) and without nodal involvement (N0). Women with breast cancer diagnosed on the basis of screening mammography had a more favorable prognosis than those diagnosed outside screening programs, following adjustments according to patient age, tumor size, axillary lymph node status, histological grade and hormone receptor status. Significant differences in the risk of having future contralateral breast cancer according to method of detection were not observed.

Conclusions

Breast cancer detected by mammography screening is an independent prognostic factor in breast cancer and is associated with a more favorable survival rate as well as in long-term follow-up.