bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MR imaging findings of ovarian torsion correlate with pathological hemorrhagic infarction
Authors: Moribata Yusaku , Kido Aki , Yamaoka Toshihide , Mikami Yoshiki , Himoto Yuki , Kataoka Masako , Fujimoto Koji , Konishi Ikuo , Togashi Kaori
Published: May 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to clarify the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings, including diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), of hemorrhagic infarction of ovarian torsion.

Material and Methods

Twelve patients presenting surgically confirmed ovarian masses with torsion were independently evaluated by two radiologists about the following MR findings: presence of ascites, uterine deviation, wall thickening on T2 weighted image (WI), recognition of twisted pedicle on T1/T2WI, and presence of wall enhancement of ovarian lesions on Gd‐T1WI. The signal intensities on T1WI and DWI were compared with those of the iliopsoas muscle and the nerve root, respectively. These MR findings were statistically compared between cases of ovarian torsion with histopathologically proven hemorrhagic infarction and those without.

Results

Pathologically, hemorrhagic infarction of the wall was confirmed in six of twelve cases. Ascites, uterine deviation and twisted pedicle were detected in most cases whether with or without hemorrhagic infarction. The complete absence of wall enhancement was observed in only one case with necrosis. A higher signal intensity of the wall compared to controls was observed in 4/6 and 5/6 cases with infarction on T1WI/DWI, respectively. This was not observed in any cases without infarction. Three out of five cystic lesions with hemorrhagic infarction showed irregular wall thickening on T2WI, and no cystic lesion without hemorrhagic infarction did. Smooth wall thickening was observed in 2/6 cases without hemorrhagic infarction.

Conclusion

Pathological hemorrhagic infarction of ovarian torsion was associated with several MR imaging findings, including high signal intensity on T1WI/DWI, and irregular wall thickening on T2WI.
A NEW SPATIAL MULTIPLE DISCRETE‐CONTINUOUS MODELING APPROACH TO LAND USE CHANGE ANALYSIS
Authors: Bhat Chandra R. , Dubey Subodh K. , Alam Mohammad Jobair Bin , Khushefati Waleed H.
Published: May 2015

This paper formulates a multiple discrete‐continuous probit (MDCP) land use model within a spatially explicit economic structural framework for land use change decisions. The spatial MDCP model is capable of predicting both the type and intensity of urban development patterns over large geographic areas, while also explicitly acknowledging geographic proximity‐based spatial dependencies in these patterns. At a methodological level, the paper focuses on specifying and estimating a spatial MDCP model that allows the dependent variable to exist in multiple discrete states with an intensity associated with each discrete state. The formulation also accommodates spatial dependencies, as well as spatial heterogeneity and heteroskedasticity, in the dependent variable, and should be applicable in a wide variety of fields where social and spatial dependencies between decision agents (or observation units) lead to spillover effects in multiple discrete‐continuous choices (or states). A simulation exercise is undertaken to evaluate the ability of the proposed maximum approximate composite marginal likelihood (MACML) approach to recover parameters from a cross‐sectional spatial MDCP model. The results show that the MACML approach does well in recovering parameters. An empirical demonstration of the approach is undertaken using the city of Austin parcel level land use data.
Thrombophilia testing in a tertiary paediatric hospital: Indications, outcomes and appropriateness
Authors: Sudarmana Aryanto , Monagle Paul
Published: May 2015

Aim

The association between inherited thrombophilia and thrombotic disease in children is unclear. As a result, whether expensive thrombophilia tests are indicated in children is a contentious issue. This retrospective study aimed to assess the appropriateness of thrombophilia testing and the associated cost of inappropriate testing at a tertiary paediatric hospital.

Methods

We conducted a search for thrombophilia tests ordered at the Royal Children's Hospital between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2013. Using pathology and clinical records, we collected data relating to demographics, clinical data, indications, requesting departments and impact on patient management.

Results

Over the 3‐year period, 3867 tests were ordered for 613 patients costing the hospital $102 579. Tests were most commonly ordered by gastroenterology on patients receiving liver transplants, by neurology as part of the stroke protocol, and by cardiology and cardiac surgery for patients anticoagulated on heparin infusions. Testing for thrombosis‐related indications was relatively uncommon. Thrombophilia testing only directly affected management in one‐third of patients. Overall, 70% of thrombophilia tests ordered were considered appropriate. However, some departments were found to have rates of inappropriate testing in excess of 50%.

Conclusion

With improvements in thrombophilia testing practices at the Royal Children's Hospital AU$29 645.40 could be saved over 3 years. While there are improvements to be made in this area, in the overall context of the hospital's pathology testing budget, review of other areas such as inappropriate use of low‐cost, high‐volume tests may be of greater value in reducing the cost of pathology testing.
Improved Detection of Citrus psorosis virus and Coat Protein‐Derived Transgenes in Citrus Plants: Comparison Between RT‐qPCR and TAS‐ELISA
Authors: De Francesco Agustina , Costa Norma , Plata María I. , García María L.
Published: May 2015

Citrus is one of the most economically important fruit crops in the world. Citrus psorosis is a serious disease affecting mainly oranges and mandarins in Argentina and Uruguay. The causal agent is Citrus psorosis virus (CPsV), an ophiovirus with a tripartite ssRNA genome of negative polarity. The coat protein (CP), the most abundant viral protein in infected plants, has been used to detect CPsV by TAS‐ELISA, but only biological indexing, requiring 1 year, is the current and validated technique for diagnosis of citrus psorosis. In this study, a SYBR Green RT‐qPCR protocol was developed, with primers designed to the most conserved region of the cp gene. We tested their specificity and sensitivity in comparison with TAS‐ELISA. This RT‐qPCR was applied successfully to field samples from Argentina, to a variety of isolates from different countries maintained in the greenhouse, to young seedlings and old trees from a psorosis natural transmission plot, and to transgenic citrus expressing the cp gene of CPsV or a fragment thereof. This method allowed accurate quantification of viral titer and cp gene expression in transgenic plants, which could not be detected previously. The sensitivity and reliability of quantitative CPsV detection were improved with greater speed using commercial reagents, and the sensitivity was three orders of magnitude higher than that of TAS‐ELISA. All these data encourage its validation.
Examining Postoperative Outcomes after Employing a Surgical Algorithm for Management of Peyronie's Disease: A Single-Institution Retrospective Review
Authors: Papagiannopoulos Dimitri , Yura Emily , Levine Laurence
Published: May 2015

Aim

Surgery remains the gold standard treatment for men with stable Peyronie's disease (PD). In an attempt to guide operative selection, we report our series of penile-straightening procedures for PD, using a surgical algorithm that recommended tunica albuginea plication (TAP), partial plaque excision and grafting (PEG) or inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) placement. With this study, we attempt to further refine surgical approach, define realistic surgical outcomes, and help establish reasonable postoperative expectations for treatment of PD.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent surgery for PD at our institution between 2007 and 2013. Work-up involved a history, physical exam, and a duplex ultrasound. Several questionnaires were employed to assess bother and distress associated with PD. Objective outcomes and patient satisfaction were assessed postoperatively. Primary outcomes include postoperative patient satisfaction with rigidity, curvature, and ability to engage in intercourse. Secondary outcomes include comparing emotional, relationship, and psychological distress to severity of disease.

Results

A total of 390 patients underwent penile-straightening procedures for correction of PD. Of these patients, 29%, (n = 114) underwent TAP, 41% (n = 159) PEG, and 30% (N = 114) IPP. Mean follow-up was 17 months. The three surgical modalities showed no significant difference in satisfaction with penile rigidity, presence of bothersome residual curve, or ability to engage in intercourse. Preoperatively, 80% of men reported a negative effect of PD on their emotional status. Postoperatively, 88.4% of men were able to engage in penetrative intercourse, while only 70% were satisfied with rigidity and 84.9% were satisfied with curvature correction.

Conclusion

Patient experience with postsurgical rigidity, ability to engage in intercourse, and residual bothersome curve was not statistically different across the three groups, supporting the use of this surgical algorithm. The majority of patients with PD experience some degree of emotional and psychological distress, which may compromise patient satisfaction.
Small heterodimer partner attenuates profibrogenic features of hepatitis C virus‐infected cells
Authors: Jung Gwon‐Soo , Jeon Jae‐Han , Choi Yeon‐Kyung , Jang Se Young , Park Soo Young , Kim Mi‐Kyung , Shin Eui‐Cheol , Jeong Won‐Il , Lee In‐Kyu , Kang Yu Na , Park Keun‐Gyu
Published: May 2015

Background & Aims

An atypical orphan nuclear receptor small heterodimer partner (SHP) is known to be regulated by AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK). Both of them inhibit TGF‐β and Smad signalling and exhibit antifibrotic activity in the liver. However, little is known about the protective effects of SHP and AMPK against hepatitis c virus (HCV)‐induced hepatic fibrosis.

Methods

Levels of SHP, p‐AMPK and fibrotic markers in HCV‐infected human liver and in Huh‐7.5 cells infected with HCV genotype 2a (JFH‐1) were investigated. The effect of adenovirus‐mediated overexpression of SHP (Ad‐SHP) and AMPK activation via metformin and 5‐amino‐1‐b‐D‐ribofuranosyl‐imidazole‐4‐carboxamide (AICAR) on fibrotic gene expression was evaluated in HCV‐infected cells. Finally, we examined the effect of Ad‐SHP and AMPK activators on invasion and activation of LX2 human HSCs induced by conditioned media from HCV‐infected hepatocyte (CM).

Results

In HCV‐infected human livers and Huh‐7.5 cells infected with HCV, SHP mRNA and protein levels were diminished compared with controls, whereas profibrotic factors were increased. Pharmacological AMPK activation recovered SHP expression, and Ad‐SHP inhibited HCV‐induced fibrotic gene expression. This finding was accompanied by inhibition of HCV‐stimulated nuclear factor‐kappa B, an inducer of TGF‐β. Moreover, CytoSelect invasion assay revealed that enhanced activity and invasiveness of hepatic stellate cells induced by CM.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that overexpression of SHP and activation of AMPK reverses profibrogenic features of HCV‐infected cells by decreasing TGF‐β and fibrotic gene expression. These findings provide a rationale for SHP as a possible therapeutic target against HCV‐induced hepatic fibrosis.
An Elephant in the Consultation Room?: Configuring Down Syndrome in British Antenatal Care
Authors: Thomas Gareth M.
Published: May 2015

This article is based on an ethnographic study of prenatal screening for Down syndrome in two British health care institutions. Drawing on observations of everyday hospital life and interviews with health care professionals, I identify how a discussion of Down syndrome is avoided during prenatal screening consultations. This relative silence is created and upheld because of three things: (1) the British public is considered as knowing what Down syndrome is; (2) the organization of care dictates that the condition is not classified as important enough to justify an explanation within consultations; and (3) professionals frequently admit to having minimal knowledge of Down syndrome. This absence, together with the condition being categorized as a risk or problem, helps produce and uphold its status as a negative pregnancy outcome. I conclude by highlighting the contributions that this article has for anthropologically exploring how ideas around disability intersect with the proliferation of reproductive technologies.
Assembly of the secretion pores GspD, Wza and CsgG into bacterial outer membranes does not require the Omp85 proteins BamA or TamA
Authors: Dunstan Rhys A. , Hay Iain D. , Wilksch Jonathan J. , Schittenhelm Ralf B. , Purcell Anthony W. , Clark Joan , Costin Adam , Ramm Georg , Strugnell Richard A. , Lithgow Trevor
Published: May 2015

In Gram‐negative bacteria, β‐barrel proteins are integrated into the outer membrane by the β‐barrel assembly machinery, with key components of the machinery being the Omp85 family members BamA and TamA. Recent crystal structures and cryo‐electron microscopy show a diverse set of secretion pores in Gram‐negative bacteria, with α‐helix (Wza and GspD) or β‐strand (CsgG) transmembrane segments in the outer membrane. We developed assays to measure the assembly of three distinct secretion pores that mediate protein (GspD), curli fibre (CsgG) and capsular polysaccharide (Wza) secretion by bacteria and show that depletion of BamA and TamA does not diminish the assembly of Wza, GspD or CsgG. Like the well characterised pilotins for GspD and other secretins, small periplasmic proteins enhance the assembly of the CsgG β‐barrel. We discuss a model for integral protein assembly into the bacterial outer membrane, focusing on the commonalities and differences in the assembly of Wza, GspD and CsgG.
PsHint1, associated with the G‐protein α subunit PsGPA1, is required for the chemotaxis and pathogenicity of Phytophthora sojae
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhai Chunhua , Hua Chenlei , Qiu Min , Hao Yujuan , Nie Pingping , Ye Wenwu , Wang Yuanchao
Published: May 2015

Zoospore chemotaxis to soybean isoflavones is essential in the early stages of infection by the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora sojae. Previously, we have identified a G‐protein α subunit encoded by PsGPA1 which regulates the chemotaxis and pathogenicity of P. sojae. In the present study, we used affinity purification to identify PsGPA1‐interacting proteins, including PsHint1, a histidine triad (HIT) domain‐containing protein orthologous to human HIT nucleotide‐binding protein 1 (HINT1). PsHint1 interacted with both the guanosine triphosphate (GTP)‐ and guanosine diphosphate (GDP)‐bound forms of PsGPA1. An analysis of the gene‐silenced transformants revealed that PsHint1 was involved in the chemotropic response of zoospores to the isoflavone daidzein. During interaction with a susceptible soybean cultivar, PsHint1‐silenced transformants displayed significantly reduced infectious hyphal extension and caused a strong cell death in plants. In addition, the transformants displayed defective cyst germination, forming abnormal germ tubes that were highly branched and exhibited apical swelling. These results suggest that PsHint1 not only regulates chemotaxis by interacting with PsGPA1, but also participates in a Gα‐independent pathway involved in the pathogenicity of P. sojae.
Experience‐ and age‐mediated oviposition behaviour in the yellow fever mosquito Stegomyia aegypti (=Aedes aegypti)
Authors: RUKTANONCHAI N. W. , LOUNIBOS L. P. , SMITH D. L. , ALLAN S. A.
Published: May 2015

In repeated behaviours such as those of feeding and reproduction, past experiences can inform future behaviour. By altering their behaviour in response to environmental stimuli, insects in highly variable landscapes can tailor their behaviour to their particular environment. In particular, female mosquitoes may benefit from plasticity in their choice of egg‐laying site as these sites are often temporally variable and clustered. The opportunity to adapt egg‐laying behaviour to past experience also exists for mosquito populations as females typically lay eggs multiple times throughout their lives. Whether experience and age affect egg‐laying (or oviposition) behaviour in the mosquito Stegomyia aegypti (=Aedes aegypti) (Diptera: Culicidae) was assessed using a wind tunnel. Initially, gravid mosquitoes were provided with a cup containing either repellent or well water. After ovipositing in these cups, the mosquitoes were blood‐fed and introduced into a wind tunnel. In this wind tunnel, an oviposition cup containing repellent was placed in the immediate vicinity of the gravid mosquitoes. A cup containing well water was placed at the opposite end of the tunnel so that if the females flew across the chamber, they encountered the well water cup, in which they readily laid eggs. Mosquitoes previously exposed to repellent cups became significantly more likely to later lay eggs in repellent cups, suggesting that previous experience with suboptimal oviposition sites informs mosquitoes of the characteristics of nearby oviposition sites. These results provide further evidence that mosquitoes modify behaviour in response to environmental information and are demonstrated in a vector species in which behavioural plasticity may be ecologically and epidemiologically meaningful.
Prevalence and risk factors associated with chronic kidney disease in a Zhuang ethnic minority area in China
Authors: Pan Ling , Ma Rui , Wu Yue , Feng Li , Song Ya‐shan , Ye Xu‐dong , Zhang Ying‐hua , Yang Zhen‐hua , Liao Yun‐hua
Published: May 2015

Aim

Numerous studies have examined and reported a high prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the general population in various countries including China. However, the situation may be different in undeveloped rural minority regions in China because of China's economic diversity. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of CKD and to analyze its associated factors in a Zhuang ethnic minority area in Southwest China.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of a rural minority area populated by people of Zhuang ethnicity in Southwest China using multistage, cluster random sampling methods was performed. The prevalence of indicators of kidney damage and CKD were calculated and risk factors associated with the presence of CKD were analyzed.

Results

In total, 7588 people participated in the study. After adjustment for age and gender, the prevalence of albuminuria, haematuria and reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate were 2.7%, 3.7%, and 2.2%, respectively. After adjustment for age and gender, the prevalence of CKD was 8.3%, while recognition of the disease was 3.6%. Independent risk factors associated with CKD were age, gender, and hypertension. Risk factors independently associated with kidney damage were age, gender, hyperuricaemia, and hypertension.

Conclusion

Our data exhibited a lower prevalence and awareness of CKD in undeveloped rural minority regions, especially exhibited a low prevalence of albuminuria. This result attributed to the low prevalence of metabolic disorders in the local region. Risk factors associated with CKD in our study is similar to surveys in other regions of China.
Analysis of oxidative stress expressed by urinary level of biopyrrins and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine in patients with chronic schizophrenia
Authors: Miyaoka Tsuyoshi , Ieda Masa , Hashioka Sadayuki , Wake Rei , Furuya Motohide , Liaury Kristian , Hayashida Maiko , Tsuchie Keiko , Arauchi Ryosuke , Araki Tomoko , Shioji Izuru , Ezoe Satoko , Inoue Ken , Yamaguchi Tokio , Horiguchi Jun
Published: May 2015

Aims

Previous studies have supported the claim that psychological stress induces the production of reactive oxygen species. Several authors have suggested that patients with psychiatric disorders show high levels of oxidative stress markers. We examined different oxidative stress markers in patients with chronic schizophrenia.

Methods

This study included 29 patients with chronic schizophrenia and 30 healthy volunteers. The concentration of urinary biopyrrins and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), as measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, were normalized to the urinary concentration of creatinine. Psychiatric symptoms were assessed by the administration of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS).

Results

The concentration of biopyrrins in patients with chronic schizophrenia was significantly higher when compared with healthy volunteers. The correlation between biopyrrin level and the duration of illness was highly significant. There were no significant differences in the levels of urinary 8‐OHdG between the two groups. In schizophrenic patients, the level of urinary biopyrrins showed correlations with BPRS scores, while the level of urinary 8‐OHdG did not show correlations with BPRS.

Conclusions

Urinary biopyrrins are increased in patients with chronic schizophrenia while urinary 8‐OHdG is not increased. These findings suggest that patients with chronic schizophrenia are under the condition of certain oxidative stresses.
Time study of staff members in an institution for severe motor and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Matsubasa Tadashi , Kimura Akihiko , Shinohara Makoto , Endo Fumio
Published: May 2015

Background

In Japan, improvement in the care for institutionalized patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities (SMID) has resulted in improved prognosis compared with previous decades, leading to difficulty in entering institutions because of the limited capacity. In recent years, new SMID patients discharged mostly from neonatal intensive care units receive care in their parents’ homes rather than in institutions. In order to effect this change, an assessment of patient care in both an institutional and home environment is of utmost importance.

Methods

We performed a minute‐by‐minute time study of the work of staff members (n = 31) in a ward in an institution for SMID (31 patients with no ventilators) over 48 h in order to reconstruct patient care.

Results

Significant differences were found between the entirely immobile group (n = 15) and semi‐mobile group (n = 13) in the area of total care time (124.6 vs 83.4 min/day, respectively, P = 0.003) and non‐medical care time (99.1 vs 69.0 min/day, P = 0.003). Nurses (16 in total) did twice as many tasks as other staff members in the areas of medical care and general care management. The number of tasks was the same for nurses and other staff members in the areas of non‐medical care and social participation/others.

Conclusion

Patient care undertaken by medical professionals in the areas of both ordinary care as well as medical care seemed to have contributed to improved prognosis in SMID patients. This study demonstrates the essential nature of nursing care for SMID patients living in institutions and at home.
Neurological disease in human and canine leishmaniasis – clinical features and immunopathogenesis
Authors: Maia C. S. F. , Monteiro M. C. , Gavioli E. C. , Oliveira F. R. , Oliveira G. B. , Romão P. R. T.
Published: May 2015

Leishmaniasis is a vectorborne disease caused by Leishmania protozoa, which is a major health problem and a neglected disease common in many regions of the world. Leishmania is an intracellular parasite transmitted by sand flies that causes clinical manifestations ranging from a severe and potentially fatal disease named visceral leishmaniasis to less severe but in many cases disfiguring diseases that mainly affect the skin or mucosal tissues, known as cutaneous leishmaniasis. Despite the detection of Leishmania parasites in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid of human patients and dogs, epidemiological data, as well as information about the mechanisms of central and peripheral nervous system alterations, are poorly described. This review is focused on the current knowledge about the neurological manifestations and immunopathogenic mechanisms in human patients and animals infected with Leishmania.
Molecular tracing of the transmission routes of bois noir in Mediterranean vineyards of Montenegro and experimental evidence for the epidemiological role of Vitex agnus‐castus (Lamiaceae) and associated Hyalesthes obsoletus (Cixiidae)
Authors: Kosovac A. , Radonjić S. , Hrnčić S. , Krstić O. , Toševski I. , Jović J.
Published: May 2015

Epidemiological aspects and transmission routes of bois noir (BN), a grapevine yellows disease induced by ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’, have been exhaustively studied in the affected vineyards of continental Europe but not in the Mediterranean coastal zone. Because ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’ and its principal vector Hyalesthes obsoletus presumably originate from the Mediterranean, gaining knowledge of the epidemiological peculiarities of the disease in this area is essential for understanding its global spread and diversification, as well as for designing local management strategies. In this study, molecular epidemiology was applied to trace transmission pathways of ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’ in the Mediterranean vineyards of Montenegro, using multilocus sequence typing of tuf, vmp1 and stamp genes of the isolates associated with various hosts. Thus, ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’ was tracked from a tentative reservoir plant (inoculum source) through an associated vector population to the infected grapevine. Three pathways of transmission were documented, originating from Urtica dioica, Convolvulus arvensis and Vitex agnus‐castus; however, only the route originating from U. dioica was direct, whereas the latter two were overlapping and could be intermixed. Vitex agnus‐castus is a natural source of ‘Ca. Phytoplasma solani’, representing an important link in disease epidemiology in the Mediterranean and a possible origin of several genotypes occurring in central Europe. Experimental confirmation of the role of Vitex‐associated H. obsoletus in BN transmission in Montenegrin vineyards indicates its tentative role as a vector in the wide area of the Mediterranean, where some of the major wine‐producing regions are located.
Effect of Conjugated Linoleic Acid on Boar Semen Quality After Long‐term Refrigeration at 17°C
Authors: Teixeira SMP , Chaveiro A , Moreira da Silva F
Published: May 2015

Contents

In this study, the effect of conjugated linoleic acid (10 trans, 12 cis) (CLA) on refrigerated boar sperm quality parameters up to 14 days at 17°C was assessed. Semen was extended in Androhep and divided into four treatments supplemented with CLA (25, 50, 100 and 200 μm) and control group, then kept for 2 h at 22°C. Afterwards an aliquot of each treatment was removed, and mitochondrial activity, viability, lipid membrane peroxidation (LPO) and stability of the sperm plasma membrane were assessed by flow cytometry. The remaining extended semen was maintained at 17°C until 336 h, repeating the same analysis every 48 h. Regarding percentage of live spermatozoa, no statistical differences were observed among treatments up to 96 h. After this time, viability decreased significantly (p < 0.05) for CLA concentrations of 100 and 200 μm. Despite these results, there was an individual response to CLA. Although in the control group, the boar A presented better results when compared with the other boars, especially at concentrations of 50 and 100 μm boar B showed significantly higher results (p < 0.05). Supplementation with CLA improved (p < 0.05) LPO, but not the mitochondrial membrane potential of sperm. The highest two CLA concentrations showed to be toxic for sperm as all results were lower than the observed for the control. In conclusion, CLA at 50 μm seems to be an efficient concentration for reducing the oxidative stress, decreasing LPO, maintaining viability, membrane stability and mitochondrial potential on refrigerated boar spermatozoa.
Building a Human Health Risk Assessment Ontology (RsO): A Proposed Framework
Authors: McKone Thomas E. , Feng Lydia
Published: May 2015

Over the last decade the health and environmental research communities have made significant progress in collecting and improving access to genomic, toxicology, exposure, health, and disease data useful to health risk assessment. One of the barriers to applying these growing volumes of information in fields such as risk assessment is the lack of informatics tools to organize, curate, and evaluate thousands of journal publications and hundreds of databases to provide new insights on relationships among exposure, hazard, and disease burden. Many fields are developing ontologies as a way of organizing and analyzing large amounts of complex information from multiple scientific disciplines. Ontologies include a vocabulary of terms and concepts with defined logical relationships to each other. Building from the recently published exposure ontology and other relevant health and environmental ontologies, this article proposes an ontology for health risk assessment (RsO) that provides a structural framework for organizing risk assessment information and methods. The RsO is anchored by eight major concepts that were either identified by exploratory curations of the risk literature or the exposure‐ontology working group as key for describing the risk assessment domain. These concepts are: (1) stressor, (2) receptor, (3) outcome, (4) exposure event, (5) dose‐response approach, (6) dose‐response metric, (7) uncertainty, and (8) measure of risk. We illustrate the utility of these concepts for the RsO with example curations of published risk assessments for ionizing radiation, arsenic in drinking water, and persistent pollutants in salmon.
Household Income, Demand, and Saving: Deriving Macro Data With Micro Data Concepts
Authors: Cynamon Barry Z. , Fazzari Steven M.
Published: May 2015

We develop adjustments to align the NIPA measures of key household variables with cash flow concepts that reflect household budgets and actual demand generated by households. The adjusted variables have substantially different behaviors across time than NIPA measures of household spending and saving. Furthermore, household income aggregated from micro data sets like the CPS, SCF, and PSID differs significantly from NIPA personal income. But the micro survey data likely reflect cash flow concepts rather than NIPA definitions. Indeed the adjusted cash flow measure of income eliminates much of the gap between micro data income variables and NIPA household income.
Carbon stock of oil palm plantations and tropical forests in Malaysia: A review
Authors: Kho Lip Khoon , Jepsen Martin Rudbeck
Published: May 2015

In Malaysia, the main land change process is the establishment of oil palm plantations on logged‐over forests and areas used for shifting cultivation, which is the traditional farming system. While standing carbon stocks of old‐growth forest have been the focus of many studies, this is less the case for Malaysian fallow systems and oil palm plantations. Here, we collate and analyse Malaysian datasets on total carbon stocks for both above‐ and below‐ground biomass. We review the current knowledge on standing carbon stocks of 1) different forest ecosystems, 2) areas subject to shifting cultivation (fallow forests) and 3) oil palm plantations. The forest ecosystems are classified by successional stage and edaphic conditions and represent samples along a forest succession continuum spanning pioneer species in shifting cultivation fallows to climax vegetation in old‐growth forests. Total carbon stocks in tropical forests range from 4 to 384 Mg C/ha, significantly wider than the range of total carbon stocks of oil palm plantations, 2 to 60 Mg C/ha. Conversion of old‐growth forest areas to oil palm plantations leads to substantial reduction in carbon storage, while conversion of forest fallows to oil palm plantations may sustain or even increase the standing carbon stock.
Assessing the Stability of Trust in Government Across Election Periods*
Authors: Dabros Matthew S. , Parker Suzanne L. , Petersen Mark W.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Past research shows that electoral context prompts changes in political trust. In the United States, data limitations confine this literature to status‐quo affirming presidential elections. We extend previous research to unexamined contexts: elections with partisan presidential changes, midterm elections with shifts in congressional control, and nonelection periods.

Method

Original panel data from 2004, 2005, 2008, 2010, and 2012 are used. Data were obtained from surveys administered to students enrolled at a large midwestern university. We compare context effects on trust and other political attitudes, and contrast trust levels among winners and losers in each context.

Results

We find that trust is more malleable than most other attitudes in all periods; it is less stable in presidential elections than congressional elections; and there is no evidence of winner and loser effects.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal the importance of political context in explaining the stability of trust by showing that trust levels are more changeable in certain contexts than others, specifically more changeable in presidential than in congressional elections.
Control of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused byLeishmania majorin south‐eastern Morocco
Authors: Bennis Issam , De Brouwere Vincent , Ameur Btissam , El Idrissi Laamrani Abderrahmane , Chichaoui Smaine , Hamid Sahibi , Boelaert Marleen
Published: May 2015

Objective

The incidence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused byLeishmania majorhas increased in Morocco over the last decade, prompting the Ministry of Health to take intersectoral response measures including vector and reservoir control. The aim of this article was to describe theCLoutbreak response measures taken in the province of Errachidia, where the reservoir ofL. major, a sand rat (Meriones shawi),was targeted using strychnine‐poisoned wheat baits from 2010 to 2012.

Method

We analysed routine surveillance data and other information using the data of the CL control programme.

Results

We present data on the evolution and the extension ofCLin this province as well as the epidemiological profile of the disease. Between 2004 and 2013, 7099 cases ofCLwere recorded in Errachidia Province, gradually affecting all districts. Our results demonstrate that more women were affected than men and that all age groups were represented.

Conclusion

Errachidia Province was the epicentre of the recentCLoutbreak in Morocco. A notable decline in incidence rates was observed after 2011. The outbreak control measures may have contributed to this decline, as well as climatic trends or progressing herd immunity.
Cost per patient of treatment for rifampicin‐resistant tuberculosis in a community‐based programme in Khayelitsha, South Africa
Authors: Cox Helen , Ramma Lebogang , Wilkinson Lynne , Azevedo Virginia , Sinanovic Edina
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The high cost of rifampicin‐resistant tuberculosis (RR‐TB) treatment hinders treatment access. South Africa has a high RR‐TB burden, and national policy outlines decentralisation to improve access and reduce costs. We analysed health system costs associated with RR‐TB treatment by drug resistance profile and treatment outcome in a decentralised programme.

Methods

Retrospective, routinely collected patient‐level data were combined with unit cost data to determine costs for each patient in a cohort treated between January 2009 and December 2011. Drug costs were based on recommended regimens according to drug resistance and treatment duration. Hospitalisation costs were estimated based on admission/discharge dates, while clinic visit and diagnostic/monitoring costs were estimated according to recommendations and treatment duration. Missing data were imputed.

Results

Among 467 patients (72% HIV infected), 49% were successfully treated. Treatment was initiated in primary care for 62%, with the remainder as inpatients. The mean cost per patient treated was $7916 (range 260–87 140), ranging from $5369 among patients who did not complete treatment to $23 006 for treatment failure. Mean cost for successful treatment was $8359 (2585–32 506). Second‐line drug resistance was associated with a mean cost of $15 567 vs. $6852 for only first‐line resistance, with the major cost difference due to hospitalisation. Costs are reported in 2013 USD.

Conclusions

RR‐TB treatment cost was high and varied according to treatment outcome. Despite decentralisation, hospitalisation remained a significant cost, particularly among those with more extensive resistance and those with treatment failure. These cost estimates can be used to model the impact of new interventions to improve patient outcomes.
Abscisic acid affects transcription of chloroplast genes via protein phosphatase 2C‐dependent activation of nuclear genes: repression by guanosine‐3′‐5′‐bisdiphosphate and activation by sigma factor 5
Authors: Yamburenko Maria V. , Zubo Yan O. , Börner Thomas
Published: May 2015

Abscisic acid (ABA) represses the transcriptional activity of chloroplast genes (determined by run‐on assays), with the exception of psbD and a few other genes in wild‐type Arabidopsis seedlings and mature rosette leaves. Abscisic acid does not influence chloroplast transcription in the mutant lines abi1‐1 and abi2‐1 with constitutive protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C) activity, suggesting that ABA affects chloroplast gene activity by binding to the pyrabactin resistance (PYR)/PYR1‐like or regulatory component of ABA receptor protein family (PYR/PYL/RCAR) and signaling via PP2Cs and sucrose non‐fermenting protein‐related kinases 2 (SnRK2s). Further we show by quantitative PCR that ABA enhances the transcript levels of RSH2, RSH3, PTF1 and SIG5. RelA/SpoT homolog 2 (RSH2) and RSH3 are known to synthesize guanosine‐3′‐5′‐bisdiphosphate (ppGpp), an inhibitor of the plastid‐gene‐encoded chloroplast RNA polymerase. We propose, therefore, that ABA leads to an inhibition of chloroplast gene expression via stimulation of ppGpp synthesis. On the other hand, sigma factor 5 (SIG5) and plastid transcription factor 1 (PTF1) are known to be necessary for the transcription of psbD from a specific light‐ and stress‐induced promoter (the blue light responsive promoter, BLRP). We demonstrate that ABA activates the psbD gene by stimulation of transcription initiation at BLRP. Taken together, our data suggest that ABA affects the transcription of chloroplast genes by a PP2C‐dependent activation of nuclear genes encoding proteins involved in chloroplast transcription.
A prospective, active haemovigilance study with combined cohort analysis of 19 175 transfusions of platelet components prepared with amotosalen–UVA photochemical treatment
Authors: Knutson F. , Osselaer J. , Pierelli L. , Lozano M. , Cid J. , Tardivel R. , Garraud O. , Hervig T. , Domanovic D. , Cukjati M. , Gudmundson S. , Hjalmarsdottir I. B. , Castrillo A. , Gonzalez R. , Brihante D. , Santos M. , Schlenke P. , Elliott A. , Lin J.‐S. , Tappe D. , Stassinopoulos A. , Green J. , Corash L.
Published: May 2015

Background and Objectives

A photochemical treatment process (PCT) utilizing amotosalen and UVA light (INTERCEPT™ Blood System) has been developed for inactivation of viruses, bacteria, parasites and leucocytes that can contaminate blood components intended for transfusion. The objective of this study was to further characterize the safety profile of INTERCEPT‐treated platelet components (PCT‐PLT) administered across a broad patient population.

Materials and Methods

This open‐label, observational haemovigilance programme of PCT‐PLT transfusions was conducted in 21 centres in 11 countries. All transfusions were monitored for adverse events within 24 h post‐transfusion and for serious adverse events (SAEs) up to 7 days post‐transfusion. All adverse events were assessed for severity (Grade 0–4), and causal relationship to PCT‐PLT transfusion.

Results

Over the course of 7 years in the study centres, 4067 patients received 19 175 PCT‐PLT transfusions. Adverse events were infrequent, and most were of Grade 1 severity. On a per‐transfusion basis, 123 (0·6%) were classified an acute transfusion reaction (ATR) defined as an adverse event related to the transfusion. Among these ATRs, the most common were chills (77, 0·4%) and urticaria (41, 0·2%). Fourteen SAEs were reported, of which 2 were attributed to platelet transfusion (<0·1%). No case of transfusion‐related acute lung injury, transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease, transfusion‐transmitted infection or death was attributed to the transfusion of PCT‐PLT.

Conclusion

This longitudinal haemovigilance safety programme to monitor PCT‐PLT transfusions demonstrated a low rate of ATRs, and a safety profile consistent with that previously reported for conventional platelet components.
An Analytical Solution for Microannulus Cracks Developed Around a Wellbore
Authors: Taleghani Arash Dahi , Klimenko Denis
Published: May 2015

In situations like blowout or hydraulic fracturing, excessive fluid pressure may cause leaking in the casing in shallower parts of the formation. The resulting high pressure may form a cylindrical crack around the wellbore. An analytical solution for stress distribution and displacement along a cylindrical crack formed between the casing and the formation is provided in this paper. The crack is assumed to be opened by uniform fluid pressure exerted on both sides of the crack. This solution has a wide range of applications from failure analysis of fibers in manufacturing composite materials to wellbore integrity in petroleum and subsurface engineering problems.
Complete Genome Sequence of Porcine Circovirus Strain 102 with a Novel Mutation, Isolated from Hunan Province, China
Authors: Zhu Zhe , Wang Naidong , Zhan Yang , Wang Zhanfeng , Wang Aibing , Deng Zhibang , Yang Yi
Published: May 2015

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) strain 102 belongs to the PCV2b-1C subtype, and its sole structural protein (Cap) exhibits high homology with that of other PCV2b isolates reported in South Korea, China, and the United States. Strain 102 contains a new mutation (R37H) in the domain of the nuclear localization signal (NLS) of the Cap.
Draft Genome Sequences of 10
Microbacterium
spp., with Emphasis on Heavy Metal-Contaminated Environments
Authors: Corretto Erika , Antonielli Livio , Sessitsch Angela , Kidd Petra , Weyens Nele , Brader Günter
Published: May 2015

Microbacterium
spp. isolated from heavy metal (HM)-contaminated environments (soil and plants) can play a role in mobilization processes and in the phytoextraction of HM. Here, we report the whole-genome sequences and annotation of 10
Microbacterium
spp. isolated from both HM-contaminated and -noncontaminated compartments.
Whole-Genome Sequence of
Aquamicrobium
sp. Strain SK-2, a Polychlorinated Biphenyl-Utilizing Bacterium Isolated from Sewage Sludge
Authors: Chang Young-Cheol , Sawada Ken , Kim Eun-Sook , Jung Kweon , Kikuchi Shintaro
Published: May 2015

Here, we report the whole-genome sequence of
Aquamicrobium
sp. strain SK-2, a bacterium which can use 2,2′,4,4′,5,5′-hexachlorobiphenyl as the sole carbon source for its growth. An approximately 9.23-Mb genome sequence of SK-2 will greatly facilitate research efforts regarding the study of the polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) degradation mechanism.
Draft Genome Sequence of Extensively Drug-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Strain CUAB1 from a Patient in Hong Kong, China
Authors: Yim Aldrin Kay-Yuen , Kwok Jamie Sui-Lam , Yu Allen Chi-Shing , Leung Alden King-Yung , Lau Hiuus Hiu-Yu , Chan Ting-Fung , Ip Margaret , Tsui Stephen Kwok-Wing
Published: May 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of an extensively drug-resistant strain of
Acinetobacter baumannii
, CUAB1, isolated from a patient in a local Hong Kong hospital. MIC testing was performed, and genes previously associated with drug resistance were located.
Draft Genome Sequences of Six Different Staphylococcus epidermidis Clones, Isolated Individually from Preterm Neonates Presenting with Sepsis at Edinburgh's Royal Infirmary
Authors: Walsh P. , Bekaert M. , Carroll J. , Manning T. , Kelly B. , O’Driscoll A. , Lu X. , Smith C. , Dickinson P. , Templeton K. , Ghazal P. , Sleator R. D.
Published: May 2015

Herein, we report the draft genome sequences of six individual
Staphylococcus epidermidis
clones, cultivated from blood taken from different preterm neonatal sepsis patients at the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Draft Genome Sequences of Five Legionella pneumophila Strains Isolated from Environmental Water Samples
Authors: Watanabe Kenta , Suzuki Haruo , Nakao Ryo , Shimizu Takashi , Watarai Masahisa
Published: May 2015

Legionella pneumophila
is the causative agent of legionellosis. Here, we report the draft genome sequences of five
L. pneumophila
strains, Bnt314, Ofk308, Twr292, Ymg289, and Ymt294, isolated from environmental water samples. Comparative analyses of these genomes may reveal the survival mechanisms and virulence of
L. pneumophila
in the natural environment.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Thermophile Thermus filiformis ATCC 43280, Producer of Carotenoid-(Di)glucoside-Branched Fatty Acid (Di)esters and Source of Hyperthermostable Enzymes of Biotechnological Interest
Authors: Mandelli Fernanda , Oliveira Ramires Brenda , Couger Matthew Brian , Paixão Douglas A. A. , Camilo Cesar M. , Polikarpov Igor , Prade Rolf , Riaño-Pachón Diego M. , Squina Fabio M.
Published: May 2015

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Thermus ﬁliformis
strain ATCC 43280, a thermophile bacterium capable of producing glycosylated carotenoids acylated with branched fatty acids and enzymes of biotechnological potential.
Genome Sequence of the Electrogenic Petroleum-Degrading
Thalassospira
sp. Strain HJ
Authors: Kiseleva Larisa , Garushyants Sofya K. , Briliute Justina , Simpson David J. W. , Cohen Michael F. , Goryanin Igor
Published: May 2015

We present the draft genome of the petroleum-degrading
Thalassospira
sp. strain HJ, isolated from tidal marine sediment. Knowledge of this genomic information will inform studies on electrogenesis and means to degrade environmental organic contaminants, including compounds found in petroleum.
Complete Genome Sequence of Parascardovia denticolens JCM 12538
T
, Isolated from Human Dental Caries
Authors: Oshima Kenshiro , Hayashi Jun-ichiro , Toh Hidehiro , Nakano Akiyo , Shindo Chie , Komiya Keiko , Morita Hidetoshi , Honda Kenya , Hattori Masahira
Published: May 2015

Parascardovia denticolens
JCM 12538
T
was isolated from human dental caries. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of this organism. This paper is the first report demonstrating the completely sequenced and assembled genome of
P. denticolens
.
Simultaneous dislocation of both interphalangeal joints in the middle finger
Authors: Hester Thomas , Mahmood Shoib , Morar Yateen , Singh Ravi
Published: May 2015

Simultaneous dorsal dislocation of both interphalangeal joints (IPJs) in one finger is an uncommon injury. This injury usually occurs on the ulnar side of the hand involving ring and little fingers. We report a case of simultaneous dislocation of both IPJs in the middle finger. Closed reduction and splinting with the IPJs in extension provided a good result with full range of motion at the patient's final follow-up.
Learning the hard way: when a CT scan misleads your diagnosis
Authors: Gill Roger Christopher , Mannan Fatima , Bawa Amber , Zafar Hasnain
Published: May 2015

Oesophageal injury due to blunt trauma is extremely rare, and when it presents it carries a very high mortality. Time is of essence and if not promptly recognised these injuries could have devastating consequences. We report a case emphasising the importance of oesophagoscopy in diagnosing oesophageal injuries. A young man presented to our emergency ward as an unwitnessed road traffic accident after receiving first aid from a secondary care facility. At presentation, he was haemodynamically stable with decreased power in lower limbs, and with severe neck and back pain. There was high suspicion of spinal injury, which was later evident on clinical and on radiological findings. A CT scan revealed oesophageal injury, indicated by contrast extravasation, which was convincing enough to proceed without endoscopy. Surprisingly, the apparently convincing injury picked up on CT scan marked by contrast extravasation turned out to be an artefact, which led to a negative surgical exploration.