bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of Rabies Virus to Type I Interferon Is Determined by the Phosphoprotein Gene
Authors: Shimizu Kenta , Ito Naoto , Sugiyama Makoto , Minamoto Nobuyuki
Published: November 2013

The growth of a virulent strain of fixed rabies virus, Nishigahara, in mouse neuroblastoma NA cells treated with type I interferon (IFN) was compared with that of a derivative avirulent strain, Ni‐CE. Nishigahara strain was slightly sensitive to IFN treatment but still grew more efficiently than did Ni‐CE strain in IFN‐treated NA cells. Furthermore, a virulent chimeric virus with the phosphoprotein gene from Nishigahara strain in the Ni‐CE genome was less sensitive to IFN treatment than was Ni‐CE strain, indicating that the IFN sensitivity is determined by the phosphoprotein gene of the virus.
The Role of p38 Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinase in Regulating Interleukin‐10 Gene Expression in Burkitt's Lymphoma Cell Lines
Authors: Horie Kazutaka , Ohashi Makoto , Satoh Yukio , Sairenji Takeshi
Published: November 2013

In malignant B lymphoma cells interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) expression is frequently upregulated. This effect is thought to support to the malignant transformation of these cells and to be a potential target for pharmacotherapy. To define better the mechanism for upregulation of the IL‐10 gene, we tested the association between IL‐10 and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in several Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infected and non‐infected Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) cell lines. The all BL cell lines expressed IL‐10 and IL‐10 receptor mRNAs, and produced IL‐10. p38 MAPK was constitutively phosphorylated in the cytoplasm of the BL cell lines. We further analyzed molecular effects of p38 MAPK on IL‐10 expression in Akata cells. Exogenous IL‐10 lead rapidly to phosphorylation of Jak1 and Tyk2 as transducers of signals of IL‐10, and promoted growth of Akata cells in a dose‐dependent manner. The phosphorylation of cytoplasmic p38 MAPK in Akata cells was reduced by the serine/threonine kinase inhibitor, 1‐(5‐isoquinolinesulfonyl)‐2‐methylpiperazine (H7). A specific inhibitor of p38 MAPK, SB203580, blocked simultaneously STAT3 DNA‐binding activity, and IL‐10 mRNA expression, IL‐10 production, and then the cell growth was inhibited. These results indicate that the p38 MAPK pathway is functionally linked to IL‐10 gene expression and supports the view that the constitutive activation of cytoplasmic p38 MAPK in BL cells is a step in the upregulation of IL‐10 gene expression and lymphomagenesis.
Immunostimulatory Flagellin from Burkholderia pseudomallei Effects on an Increase in the Intracellular Calcium Concentration and Up‐Regulation of TNF‐α by Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Chen Ya‐Lei , Chen Yao‐Shen , Lin Hsi‐Hsun , Chan Chun‐Wen , Chen Ssu‐Ching , Chen Ching‐Hsein
Published: November 2013

Using flow cytometry analysis, the flagellin of Burkholderia pseudomallei acts as a signalling inducer, and evokes an increase in the intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The cells with increased [Ca2+]i segregate into the live monocyte gate and not into the live lymphocyte gates. The stimulated [Ca2+]i increase can be neutralized with anti‐flagellin antibodies. In the absence of [Ca2+], [Ca2+]i was increased rapidly in flagellin‐treated cells compared to non‐flagellin‐treated cells only after the addition of 1 mM CaCl2. Selective calcium antagonists were used to effectively block the [Ca2+]i signal, revealing that this signal was decreased by the addition of L‐type calcium channel blockers (diltiazem, nifedipine and verapamil) and La2+ but was not changed by the addition of a T‐type calcium channel blocker (flunarizine). It seemed that flagellin facilitates [Ca2+]i influx via a La2+ sensitive L‐type cellular membrane channel. Furthermore, flagellin also acts as a TNF‐α inducer in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner when adhered mononuclear cells are treated with flagellin. This ability to induce TNF‐α production was affected by the presence of [Ca2+] in the culture medium. It suggested that B. pseudomallei flagellin is an immuno‐stimulatory molecule, causing an increase in [Ca2+]i and an up‐regulation of TNF‐α, which may play an important role in the inflammation process.
Sensitive Detection of Bacillus anthracis Using a Binding Protein Originating from γ‐Phage
Authors: Fujinami Yoshihito , Hirai Yoshikazu , Sakai Ikuko , Yoshino Mineo , Yasuda Jiro
Published: November 2013

Detection of biological weapons is a primary concern in force protection, treaty verification, and safeguarding civilian populations against domestic terrorism. One great concern is the detection of Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax. Therefore, there is a pressing need to develop novel methods for rapid, simple, and precise detection of B. anthracis. Here, we report that the C‐terminal region of γ‐phage lysin protein (PlyG) binds specifically to the cell wall of B. anthracis and the recombinant protein corresponding to this region (positions, 156–233), PlyGB, is available as a bioprobe for detection of B. anthracis. Our detection method, based on a membrane direct blot assay using recombinant PlyGB, was more rapid and sensitive than the γ‐phage test and was simpler and more inexpensive than genetic methods such as PCR, or immunological methods using specific antibodies. Furthermore, its specificity was comparable to the γ‐phage test. PlyGB is applicable in conventional methods instead of antibodies and could be a potent tool for detection of B. anthracis.
Molecular Characterization of Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Hospitals in Niigata, Japan: Divergence and Transmission
Authors: Zaraket Hassan , Otsuka Taketo , Saito Kohei , Dohmae Soshi , Takano Tomomi , Higuchi Wataru , Ohkubo Takeshi , Ozaki Kyoko , Takano Misao , Reva Ivan , Baranovich Tatiana , Yamamoto Tatsuo
Published: November 2013

The major methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) distributed among hospitals in Japan is New York/Japan clone [multilocus sequence type 5 (ST5), agr type 2 and methicillin resistance locus type (SCCmec) II] which possesses both the toxic shock syndrome toxin 1 gene (tst) and staphylococcal enterotoxin C gene (sec). In this study, we collected 245 MRSA strains from four hospitals during 2001 to 2005 in Niigata, Japan, and analyzed tst and sec genes and SCCmec type among them. A total of 13 strains were further examined for their genotypes, virulence gene patterns and drug resistance. Among the 245 strains four tst sec genes patterns were observed; tst+sec+ strains represented a majority of 86.5% and 9.4% were tst−sec−. SCCmec typing revealed that 91.4% had type II, 4.1% type IV and 4.1% type I. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) revealed that 10 of the 13 typed strains belonged to clonal complex 5 (7 had ST5 while 3 were single locus variants of ST5) with similar characteristics to the New York/Japan clone and possessed multi‐drug resistance with high virulence gene content The remaining 3 strains were ST8 (n=2) and ST91 (n=1). The ST91 strain had SCCmecIV and seemed to originate in the community, while ST8 strains exhibited SCCmec type I, which is distinct from community type IV. The data suggest that MRSA in hospitals in Niigata now mainly includes the New York/Japan clone (undergoing genomic divergence and clonal expansion) and other minor types (e.g. ST8) as well as the community type.
Molecular Characterization of Imipenem‐Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Hiroshima, Japan
Authors: Ohara Masaru , Kouda Shuntaro , Onodera Makoto , Fujiue Yoshihiro , Sasaki Megumi , Kohara Tadahiro , Kashiyama Seiya , Hayashida Shizue , Kadono Manami , Komatsuzawa Hitoshi , Gotoh Naomasa , Usui Tuguru , Itaha Hideyuki , Kuwabara Masao , Yokoyama Takashi , Sugai Motoyuki
Published: November 2013

Pseudomonas aeruginosa showing resistance to imipenem were found in 100 of 1,058 strains (9.5%) from six hospitals (a–f) in Hiroshima City, Japan. Of the 100 strains, 14 (14%) were double disk synergy test positive using sodium mercaptoacetic acid disks, and 18 (18%) were blaIMP‐1 or blaVIM‐2 allele positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Among 100 imipenem‐resistant strains, 32 were categorized into multi‐drug resistant strains, in which 13 were positive for the metallo‐β‐lactamase gene. Fifty‐one strains (51%) among the 100 imipenem‐resistant strains had elevated RND efflux pump activity against levofloxacin. But only 6 of 51 strains were classified as multi‐drug resistant strains. The pulsed field gel electrophoresis analysis of the SpeI‐digested DNA from the 100 isolates suggested not only clonal spread but spread of heterogeneous clones started to contribute to the prevalence of metallo‐β‐lactamase producing P. aeruginosa strains in Japanese hospitals.
Effects of Phthalate Esters on Dendritic Cell Subsets and Interleukin‐4 Production in Fluorescein Isothiocyanate‐Induced Contact Hypersensitivity
Authors: Maruyama Takashi , Shiba Takahiro , Iizuka Hiromi , Matsuda Tomoko , Kurohane Kohta , Imai Yasuyuki
Published: November 2013

Phthalate esters with short alkyl chains, such as di‐ethyl (DEP), di‐n‐propyl (DPP), and di‐butyl phthalate (DBP), have adjuvant effects on an FITC‐induced contact hypersensitivity mouse model. The adjuvant effects of DPP and DBP are associated with enhanced trafficking of FITC‐presenting CD11b+ dendritic cells (DC). DEP has relatively weak activity as to FITC‐positive cell migration. Here we demonstrated that DBP and DPP also increased the number of FITC‐positive CD8alpha+ DC in draining lymph nodes. We also found enhanced production of interleukin‐4 in draining lymph nodes after FITC sensitization with DEP, DPP, or DBP, suggesting an additional adjuvant mechanism of phthalate esters.
The Potent Antibacterial Activity of Sitafloxacin against Fluoroquinolone‐Resistant Clinical Isolates of Vibrio cholerae O1
Authors: Okuda Jun , Ramamurthy Thandavarayan , Yamasaki Shinji
Published: November 2013

The in vitro antibacterial activity of sitafloxacin using clinical isolates of Vibrio cholerae O1 was compared to other fluoroquinolones: ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, sparfloxacin and levofloxacin. Against fluoroquinolone‐resistant O1 strains, sitafloxacin was 4‐ to 16‐fold more effective than other fluoroquinolones at MIC90. Against fluoroquinolone‐susceptible O1 strains, the MIC90 of sitafloxacin was 2‐ to 4‐fold lower than other fluoroquinolones. This suggests sitafloxacin can be used in the treatment of infections caused by V. cholerae O1 strains including the fluoroquinolone‐resistant strains.
Production of Shiga Toxin by a luxS Mutant of Escherichia coli O157:H7 In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Jeon Byeonghwa , Itoh Kikuji
Published: November 2013

Quorum sensing is a type of bacterial communication mediated by chemical signaling molecules called autoinducers (AIs). The production of AI‐2 and AI‐3 is dependent on the luxS gene in Escherichia coli O157:H7. A luxS mutation caused a minimal decrease (about 2‐fold) in Shiga toxin (Stx) production in in vitro cultures using Luria‐Bertani broth. The effect of a luxS mutation on the virulence of E. coli O157:H7 was examined by using germfree mice. There were no differences between the luxS mutant and the wild‐type in the bacterial counts in feces shedding, Stx production, or the survival of the mice. The treatment of ciprofloxacin decreased the bacteria in feces but increased the Stx production. However, even treatment with ciprofloxacin did not make any difference between the luxS mutant and the wild‐type in animal experiments.
Identification of a Porphyromonas gingivalis Novel Protein Sov Required for the Secretion of Gingipains
Authors: Saiki Keitarou , Konishi Kiyoshi
Published: November 2013

Gingipains are extracellular proteases important for the virulence of Porphyromonas gingivalis; however, the mechanism for the secretion of gingipains is poorly understood. In this report, we found that insertion mutants for PG0809 (83K1 and 83K2) were defective in black pigmentation and hemolysis. We cloned and sequenced PG0809 and found that PG0809 contains two additional nucleotides that are not deposited in the W83 genome database. The revised sequence reveals an in‐frame fusion of PG0810 and PG0809 and is designated the sov gene. We constructed a sov deletion mutant (83K3) and showed that 83K3 was defective in the activities of black pigmentation, hemolysis, and hemagglutination. Furthermore, in 83K3, the activities of gingipains were severely reduced whereas those of other secreted proteases DPPIV, DPP‐7, and PtpA were not affected. Immunoblot analysis using anti‐RgpB antiserum showed that Arg‐gingipains were poorly secreted in an outer membrane or into an extracellular portion but accumulated within the cells of 83K3, suggesting the secretion of gingipains is defected in 83K3. Taken together, our findings indicated that Sov is a novel protein required for the secretion of gingipains and suggested that the secretion system for gingipains is different from the conserved secretion systems.
Plasma Levels of Unactivated Thrombin Activatable Fibrinolysis Inhibitor (TAFI) Are Down‐Regulated in Young Adult Women: Analysis of a Normal Japanese Population
Authors: Akatsu Hiroyasu , Ishiguro Masae , Ogawa Norihiro , Kanesaka Takeshi , Okada Noriko , Yamamoto Takayuki , Campbell William , Okada Hidechika
Published: November 2013

Thrombin‐activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) is an anaphylatoxin‐inactivating enzyme generated by proteolytic cleavage of its zymogen, and is the same enzyme as that first designated by our group as procarboxypeptidase R (proCPR). TAFI in plasma is presumed to influence vascular disease in its role as a fibrinolysis inhibitor. The activity of TAFI is strongly influenced by genetic polymorphism, especially at amino acids Thr/Ala‐147 and Thr/Ile‐325. In this study, we analyzed 202 healthy controls who were not on any medication, had no unusual medical history and whose blood data were normal. In a previous report, we established an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) specific for non‐activated TAFI (proCPR), and investigated levels of unactivated TAFI as an estimate of anti‐fibrinolytic capacity. In this study, we determined normal Japanese TAFI levels for each age, sex, and genetic polymorphism of Thr/Ala‐147 and Thr/Ile‐325, and also showed that the TAFI level in young adult women is lower than in aged women.
Construction of Human Fab (Y1/K) Library and Identification of Human Monoclonal Fab Possessing Neutralizing Potency against Japanese Encephalitis Virus
Authors: Arakawa Mitsue , Yamashiro Tetsu , Uechi Gen‐ichiro , Tadano Masayuki , Nishizono Akira
Published: November 2013

A combinatorial human Fab library was constructed using RNAs from peripheral blood lymphocytes obtained from Japanese encephalitis virus hyper‐immune volunteers on pComb3H phagemid vector. The size of the constructed Fab library was 3.3 × 108 Escherichia coli transformants. The library was panned 3 times on the purified Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) virion, and phage clones displaying JEV antigen‐specific Fab were enriched. The enriched phage pool was then screened for clones producing Fab molecule with JEV neutralizing activity by the focus reduction‐neutralizing test. Among 188 randomly selected clones, 9 Fab preparations revealed neutralizing activities against JEV strain Nakayama. An E. coli transformed with TJE12B02 clone, which produced human monoclonal Fab with the highest neutralizing activity was cultured in a large scale, and the Fab molecule was purified using affinity chromatography. The purified FabTJE12B02 showed the 50% focus reduction endpoint at the concentration of 50.2 μg/ml (ca. 1,000 nM) when JEV strain Nakayama was used. The FabTJE12B02 recognized E protein of JEV strain Nakayama, and the dissociation equilibrium constant (Kd) of the FabTJE12B02 against purified JEV antigen was calculated as 1.21 × 10–8 M. Sequence analysis demonstrated that TJE12B02 used a VH sequence homologous to the VH3 family showing 88.8% homology to germline VH3–23, and used a VK sequence homologous to the VκII subgroup showing 92.8% homology to germline A17.
Potent CTL Induction by a Whole Cell Pertussis Vaccine in Anti‐Tumor Peptide Immunotherapy
Authors: Yano Arisa , Komatsu Toshihiro , Ishibashi Masahide , Udaka Keiko
Published: November 2013

Promising yet limited clinical responses have been reported for peptide based immunotherapy against tumors. In order to induce more potent cytolytic CD8 T cell responses, we investigated the use of Bordetella pertussis vaccine as an adjuvant for peptide immunization. A whole cell (Wc) vaccine has been known to induce a Th1 biased immune response while an acellular (Ac) vaccine tends to induce that of the Th2 type. Natural infection by B. pertussis helps to maintain a robust Th1 memory in the host population. To examine the adjuvant activity of the pertussis vaccine, we immunized mice with an ovalbumin peptide as a model tumor antigen, and monitored the development of anti‐tumor activities. The addition of either the Ac or the Wc vaccine helped expand the specific CD8 T cells. However, there was a marked difference in the induced cytolytic activity where the Wc vaccine was superior to the Ac. The Wc vaccine was also more effective in inducing in vivo tumor rejection. The adjuvant activity was not only effective against ovalbumin, but was also evident when an endogenous tumor antigen, Wilms' tumor 1 gene product, was targeted. These results indicate that, although the Wc vaccine does not share the same antigen specificity with tumor cells, it can aid in the development of highly cytolytic CD8 T cells as an adjuvant at the site of peptide immunization.
Metascardovia criceti Gen. Nov., Sp. Nov., from Hamster Dental Plaque
Authors: Okamoto Masaaki , Benno Yoshimi , Leung Kai‐P. , Maeda Nobuko
Published: November 2013

A novel microorganism, Metascardovia criceti gen. nov., sp. nov., was isolated from dental plaque of golden hamsters fed with a high‐carbohydrate diet. The three isolated strains, OMB104, OMB105, and OMB107, were Gram‐positive, facultative anaerobic rods that lacked catalase activity. Analyses of the partial 16S rRNA and heat‐shock protein 60 (HSP60) gene sequences of these isolates indicated that they belonged to the family Bifidobacteriaceae. However, in contrast to Bifidobacterium, one of the genera under this family, these isolates grew under aerobic conditions, and the DNA G + C contents were lower (53 mol%) than those of Bifidobacterium. On the basis of phylogenetic analyses using phenotypic characterization, and partial 16S rRNA and HSP60 gene sequences data, we propose a novel taxa, Metascardovia criceti for OMB105T (type strain=JCM 13493T=DSM 17774T) for this newly described isolate.
HLA‐DRB1*0410‐Restricted Recognition of XAGE‐1b37‐48 Peptide by CD4 T Cells
Authors: Morishita Yoshiyuki , Uenaka Akiko , Kaya Savas , Sato Shuichiro , Aji Toshiki , Nakayama Eiichi
Published: November 2013

XAGE‐1b belongs to cancer/testis (CT) antigens, and has been shown to be expressed frequently in lung cancers and to elicit an antibody response in patients with XAGE‐1b‐expressing tumors. In this study, we investigated an XAGE‐1b peptide recognized by CD4 T cells. CD4 T cells were purified from PBMC of a healthy donor and stimulated with pooled 25‐mer peptides overlapped with 15 amino acids spanning the entire XAGE‐1b protein. The generation of XAGE‐1b‐specific CD4 T cells was shown by IFN7 secretion assay. A CD4 T cell clone OHD1 was obtained by limiting dilution. OHD1 recognized two overlapping peptides, XAGE1‐b33–49 and XAGE‐1b37–52, by ELISPOT assay. A peptide XAGE‐1b38–46 which was included in both XAGE‐1b33–49 and XAGE‐1b37–52 was predicted to be a DRB1*0410‐restricted 9‐mer peptide by a computer‐based program. We identified the 12‐mer peptide XAGE‐1b37–48 as a new XAGE‐1b epitope restricted to HLA‐DRB1*0410.
Identification of Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157‐Specific DNA Sequence Obtained from Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis
Authors: Tokunaga Akihiko , Kawano Masanori , Okura Masatoshi , Iyoda Sunao , Watanabe Haruo , Osawa Ro
Published: November 2013

An approximately 1.1 kbp fragment that was commonly observed only in the enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157 strains in an analysis of amplified fragment length polymorphism was found to be a partial gene sequence encoding the locus of toxB and a useful molecular marker for the identification of EHEC O157.
Antibiotics Protect against Septic Shock in Mice Administered β‐Glucan and Indomethacin
Authors: Nameda Sachiko , Miura Noriko N. , Adachi Yoshiyuki , Ohno Naohito
Published: November 2013

We have developed an animal model of sepsis in mice by repeatedly administering β‐glucan, a biological response modifier, and indomethacin (IND), a nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug. The combination of these drugs induced bacteremia by translocation of the enterobacterial flora, resulting in increasing the number of activated leukocytes, and inducing hyper cytokinemia. In the present study, we examined the effect of antibiotics on β‐glucan and IND‐induced septic shock. Treatment with antibiotics inhibited microbial translocation, inhibited contraction of the colon, reduced lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐elicited production of TNF‐α and IL‐6, and finally prolonged survival. However, the efficacy of antibiotics treatment was limited in mice administered IND orally. These findings strongly suggested that the antibiotics controlled the gut‐associated action of IND and reduced various symptoms accompanying sepsis.
Exposure to Leishmania major Modulates the Proportion of CD4T Cells without Affecting Cellular Immune Responses
Authors: Alimohammadian Mohammad Hossein , Darabi Haiedeh , Malekzadeh Shirin , Mahmoodzadeh‐Niknam Hamid , Ajdary Soheila , Khamesipour Ali , Bahonar Ahmad , Mofarrah Alireza
Published: November 2013

The immune responses of individuals exposed to Leishmania major were evaluated and compared with those of non‐exposed volunteers. Forty‐one patients with active lesion(s), 43 healed individuals, 15 vaccinees 1 month or 1 year post vaccination, and 15 non‐exposed volunteers were studied. Leishmanin skin test (LST) response, proliferative response of lymphocyte (PRL) to L. major antigen, IFN‐γ and IL‐4 production, and percentage of L. major‐specific CD4+, CD8+ and CD16/CD56+ cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were assessed. Data showed positive LST (>5 mm) in 92% of patients, 98% of healed, and 80% or 43% of vaccinees 1 month and 1 year post vaccination, respectively. Positive PRL (SI>2.5) was displayed in 90%, 84%, 46% and 7% of patients, healed, vaccinated (post 1 year) and non‐exposed donors, respectively. The mean ±S.E. of IFN‐γ was 924 ± 149, 1,278 ± 185, 470 ± 282 or 258 ± 82 pg/ml in patients, healed cases and vaccinees after 1 month or 1 year, respectively. Positive IFN‐γ responders (>300 pg/ml) were shown in 72% of patients, 81% of healed cases, 31% or 39% of vaccinees and 0% of non‐exposed donors. A reduced percentage of CD4+ T‐cells and an increased percentage of NK cells were found in exposed individuals compared to non‐exposed donors. The data indicated that exposure to L. major modulates the proportion of CD4+T cells and increases NK cells percentage. However, the cellular immune responses including induction of LST, and IFN‐γ production are increased in exposed individuals.
Immune Responses of Mice to Influenza Subunit Vaccine in Combination with CIA07 as an Adjuvant
Authors: Park Shin Ae , Song Eun Sun , Cho Yang Je , Ahn Bo Young , Ha Suk‐Hoon , Seong Bak Lin , Lee Kwang Hee , Lee Na Gyong
Published: November 2013

CIA07 is an immunostimulatory agent composed of E. coli DNA fragments and modified LPS lacking the lipid A moiety. In this study, we investigated whether CIA07 promotes immune responses as an adjuvant to the influenza subunit vaccine. Balb/c mice were immunized intramuscularly once or twice at a 4‐week interval with the trivalent influenza subunit vaccine antigen alone or in combination with CIA07 as adjuvant. Antigen‐specific serum antibody titers and hemagglutination‐inhibition (HI) antibody titers were assessed. At 4 weeks after each immunization, the antigen‐specific total serum IgG antibody titer in mice receiving CIA07 was 2 to 3 times higher than that in animals administered antigen alone (P<0.05). The CIA07‐treated group additionally displayed higher HI antibody titers against each of the 3 vaccine strains, compared to the antigen group. Animals receiving antigen alone displayed barely detectable antigen‐specific serum IgG2a antibody titers. In contrast, coadministration of CIA07 with antigen led to significantly enhanced IgG2a antibody responses, suggesting that CIA07 stimulates a Th1‐type immune response. Moreover, the CIA07‐treated group displayed a marked increase in the number of interferon γ‐producing CD8+ T cells in splenocytes. These data collectively demonstrate that CIA07 has the ability to induce both Th1‐type cellular and Th2‐type humoral immune responses to the influenza subunit vaccine, and support its potential as an effective adjuvant to the influenza vaccine.
The history of nurse imagery and the implications for recruitment: a discussion paper
Authors: Price Sheri L. , McGillis Hall Linda
Published: November 2013

Aim

This paper presents a discussion of the history of nurse imagery in the context of recent career choice research and the need for contemporary images for nursing recruitment.

Background

The critical and growing shortage of nurses is a global concern. Understanding how individuals come to know nursing as a career choice is of critical importance. Stereotypical imaging and messaging of the nursing profession have been shown to shape nurses' expectations and perceptions of nursing as a career, which has implications for both recruitment and retention.

Data Sources

Relevant research and literature on nurse imagery in relation to career choice and recruitment were identified through a search of the CINAHL, PsychINFO, Sociological Abstracts, PubMed; Medline and Embase databases from 1970–2012.

Discussion

Historical images of nurses and nursing remain prevalent in society today and continue to influence the choice of nursing as a career among the upcoming generation of nurses. Students interested in nursing may be dissuaded from choosing it as a career based on negative, stereotypical images, especially those that position the profession as inferior to medicine.

Implications for Nursing

Understanding the evolution and perpetuation of popular images and messages in relation to the profession has implications for not only how we recruit and retain future generations of professional nurses but also holds implications for interprofessional collaboration between nursing and other health disciplines.

Conclusion

Strategies for future recruitment and socialization within the nursing and the health professions need to include contemporary and realistic imaging of both health professional roles and practice settings.
Florence Nightingale and Mary Seacole on nursing and health care
Authors: McDonald Lynn
Published: November 2013

Aims

The purpose of this article is to correct inaccurate information about both Mary Seacole and Florence Nightingale, material that promotes Seacole as a pioneer nurse and heroine, while either ignoring Nightingale or trivializing her contribution.

Background

Nursing journals have been prominent in promoting inaccurate accounts of the contribution of Seacole to nursing. Some have intermittently published positive material about Nightingale, but none has published redress.

Design

Discussion paper.

Data

Primary sources from 1855–2012 were found, which contradict some key claims made about Seacole. Further sources – not included here – are identified, with a website reference.

Implications for Nursing

It is argued that Nightingale remains relevant as a model for nurses, with the many crises in patient care and continuing challenges of hospital safety.

Conclusion

Greater accuracy and honesty are required in reporting about nursing heroes. Without these, great ideas and examples can be lost to nursing and health care.
The gendered impact of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a qualitative study of patients' experiences
Authors: Björkman Ida , Dellenborg Lisen , Ringström Gisela , Simrén Magnus , Jakobsson Ung Eva
Published: November 2013

Aim

The aim of the study was to explore the impact of irritable bowel syndrome on daily life from a gender perspective.

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome is a common functional disorder, characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhoea and/or constipation. Sufferers experience negative emotions due to unpredictable symptoms and sometimes feel trivialized by healthcare professionals. The sufferers' experience of living with this disorder has never been explored from a gender perspective.

Design

A qualitative, interpretative method was used.

Methods

A qualitative, hermeneutic method was applied. Interviews were conducted with 19 patients in 2011 and analysed in a constructionist gender framework. Constructionist gender theory views gender and identity as cultural constructs that develop through interplay between the individual and his/her social context and cultural norms.

Findings

The main theme to emerge from the interviews was as follows: ‘A normative framework of femaleness and maleness leads to suffering for persons with irritable bowel syndrome’. This consists of three interwoven themes: ‘Being forced to abandon gender illusions’; ‘Being forced to transcend taboos’ and ‘Reinforced suffering in healthcare encounters’. Men demonstrated masculinity by stressing the importance of being solid family providers while women spoke of nurturing and relational responsibilities in line with traditional notions of femininity.

Conclusion

The experience of living with irritable bowel syndrome differs between men and women due to differing societal expectations, life situation and the everyday construction of gender identities. Gender stereotyping by healthcare professionals perpetuates rather than alleviates the suffering experienced by men and women with irritable bowel syndrome. In healthcare encounters, women risk being trivialized and men risk being overlooked due to the ‘female health concern’ label attached to irritable bowel syndrome.
What counts as effective communication in nursing? Evidence from nurse educators' and clinicians' feedback on nurse interactions with simulated patients
Authors: O'Hagan Sally , Manias Elizabeth , Elder Catherine , Pill John , Woodward‐Kron Robyn , McNamara Tim , Webb Gillian , McColl Geoff
Published: November 2013

Aim

To examine the feedback given by nurse educators and clinicians on the quality of communication skills of nurses in interactions with simulated patients.

Background

The quality of communication in interactions between nurses and patients has a major influence on patient outcomes. To support the development of effective nursing communication in clinical practice, a good understanding of what constitutes effective communication is helpful.

Design

An exploratory design was used involving individual interviews, focus groups and written notes from participants and field notes from researchers to investigate perspectives on nurse–patient communication.

Methods

Focus groups and individual interviews were held between August 2010–September 2011 with a purposive sample of 15 nurse educators and clinicians who observed videos of interactions between nurses and simulated patients. These participants were asked to give oral feedback on the quality and content of these interactions. Verbatim transcriptions were undertaken of all data collected. All written notes and field notes were also transcribed. Thematic analysis of the data was undertaken.

Findings

Four major themes related to nurse–patient communication were derived from the educators' and clinicians' feedback: approach to patients and patient care, manner towards patients, techniques used for interacting with patients and generic aspects of communication.

Conclusion

This study has added to previous research by contributing grounded evidence from a group of nurse educators and clinicians on the aspects of communication that are relevant for effective nurse–patient interactions in clinical practice.
The Effects of Liberalizing Migration on Permanent Migrants' Education Structure
Authors: Huber Peter , Bock‐Schappelwein Julia
Published: November 2013

This article explores how the full liberalization of migration as a consequence of Austria's European economic area (EEA) accession in 1994 impacted on the education structure of migrants to Austria. To identify the effects of this policy change, use is made of the fact that only migrants from EEA member states were affected, while third country citizens were not. Robust evidence is found that the share of low educated permanent migrants from the EEA to Austria reduced relative to the share of low educated permanent migrants from other countries after Austria's EEA accession. This suggests that liberalizing migration may be an effective way to improve the skill structure of migrants in countries with a high share of low‐skilled migrants.
Political and Economic Integration in the EU: The Case of Failed Tax Harmonization
Authors: Wasserfallen Fabio
Published: November 2013

The European Union (EU) tax mandate remains narrow. That there was only a limited transfer of tax authority to the EU exemplifies the failure of political and fiscal integration. Using a political economy framework, this article analyzes why the heads of state rejected tax harmonization proposals in the intergovernmental conferences. The presented findings of the original data on the Maastricht, Nice and Lisbon negotiations support the main hypothesis derived from the theoretical framework – namely that resistance against tax harmonization came predominantly from low‐tax countries. Moreover, the results indicate that after the accession of the central and eastern European countries the prospects of harmonizing tax policy starkly decreased. The analysis shows that tax heterogeneity and the enlargements have negative effects on tax integration. Based on the empirical findings and the theoretical framework, the article concludes by discussing how the creation of the monetary union restructured the politics of tax Europeanization and fiscal integration.
Flood risk management in the Netherlands after the 1953 flood: a competition between the public value(s) of water
Authors: Correljé A. , Broekhans B.
Published: November 2013

Deltas like the Netherlands always face flooding risk. After the flood of 1953, flood risk management was geared towards achieving full safety, controlling the probability of flooding with high dikes and a shorter coastline. Yet, this approach became increasingly contested, as flood risk control was (re) linked to other values of water, like nature and landscape preservation and economic activities. This paper reconstructs how the process of policy making and implementation has sought to balance these multiple values over time. It shows that public values did not develop linearly into concrete standards and practices. Processes of re‐articulation and political renegotiation of the meaning and importance of water safety took different paths with regard to both the river systems and the coastline. Curves in these paths can be seen as feedback mechanisms that verify the robustness of flood risk management measures and/or respond to changes in the character of the public values involved.
Efficacy of continuous plasma diafiltration therapy in critical patients with acute liver failure
Authors: Komura Takuya , Taniguchi Takumi , Sakai Yoshio , Yamashita Tatsuya , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Noda Toru , Okajima Masaki , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: November 2013

Background and Aims

Acute liver failure (ALF) is a critical illness with high mortality. Plasma diafiltration (PDF) is a blood purification therapy that is useful for ALF patients, but it is difficult to use when those patients have multiple organ failure or unstable hemodynamics. In these patients, symptoms are also likely to exacerbate immediately after PDF therapy. We developed continuous PDF (CPDF) as a new concept in PDF therapy, and assessed its efficacy and safety in ALF patients.

Methods

Ten ALF patients (gender: M/F 6/4, Age: 47 ± 14) were employed CPDF therapy. The primary outcomes were altered liver function, measured by the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score, and total bilirubin and prothrombin time international normalized ratios (PT‐INR), 5 days after CPDF therapy. Secondary outcomes included sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores, 5 days after CPDF therapy, and the survival rate 14 days after this therapy.

Results

The MELD score (34.5–28.0; P = 0.005), total bilirubin (10.9–7.25 mg/dL; P = 0.048), PT‐INR (1.89–1.31; P = 0.084), and SOFA score (10.0–7.5; P < 0.039) were improved 5 days after CPDF therapy. Nine patients were alive, and one patient died because of acute pancreatitis, complicated by ALF. There were no major adverse events related to this therapy under hemodynamic stability.

Conclusion

In the present study, CPDF therapy safely supported liver function and generally improved the condition of critically ill patients with ALF.
Sitafloxacin‐based third‐line rescue regimens for Helicobacter pylori infection in Japan
Authors: Furuta Takahisa , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Kodaira Chise , Nishino Masafumi , Yamade Mihoko , Uotani Takahiro , Sahara Shu , Ichikawa Hitomi , Yamada Takanori , Osawa Satoshi , Sugimoto Ken , Watanabe Hiroshi , Umemura Kazuo
Published: November 2013

Abstracts

Backgrounds

Quinolone‐based regimens have been used as the rescue for eradication of Helicobacter pylori. Sitafloxacin is known to have low minimum inhibitory concentration for H. pylori. Here, we compared two sitafloxacin‐based eradication regimens as rescue for the eradication of H. pylori.

Methods

We attempted to eradicate H. pylori in 180 Japanese patients who had never failed in eradication of H. pylori with the triple proton pump inhibitor/amoxicillin/clarithromycin therapy (1st line) and the triple proton pump inhibitor/amoxicillin/metronidazole therapy (2nd line). They were assigned to either the triple therapy with rabeprazole 10 mg b.i.d./q.i.d., amoxicillin 500 mg q.i.d, and sitafloxacin 100 mg b.i.d. (RAS) for 1 or 2 weeks or the triple therapy with rabeprazole 10 mg b.i.d./q.i.d., metronidazole 250 mg b.i.d., and sitafloxacin 100 mg b.i.d. (RMS) for 1 or 2 weeks. Eradication was assessed via the 13C‐urea breath test and rapid urease test.

Results

Intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol analyses of eradication rates were 84.1% (37/44) and 86.4% (37/43) with RAS for 1 week, 88.9% (40/45) and 90.9% (40/44) for RAS for 2 weeks, 90.9% (40/44) and 90.9% (40/44) for 1 week‐RMS and 87.2% (41/47) and 91.1% (41/45) with RMS for 2 weeks. We noted no statistical significant differences in eradication rates among four regimens.

Conclusion

All of the above‐described rescue regimens proved relatively equally useful in the eradication of H. pylori. Of them, RAS for 2 weeks and RMS for 1 or 2 weeks could attain the rescue eradication rates higher than 90% by per‐protocol analysis.
Expression level of sonic hedgehog correlated with the speed of gastric mucosa regeneration in artificial gastric ulcers
Authors: Tanaka Takeshi , Arai Makoto , Minemura Shoko , Oyamada Arata , Saito Keiko , Jiang Xia , Tsuboi Masaru , Sazuka Sayuri , Maruoka Daisuke , Matsumura Tomoaki , Nakagawa Tomoo , Sugaya Shigeru , Kanda Tatsuo , Katsuno Tatsuro , Kita Kazuko , Kishimoto Takashi , Imazeki Fumio , Kaneda Atsushi , Yokosuka Osamu
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Gastric ulcer healing is a complex process involving cell proliferation and tissue remodeling. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) activates the Shh signaling pathway, which plays a key role in processes such as tissue repair. Shh and interleukin 1β (IL1β) have been reported to influence the proliferation of gastric mucosa. We evaluated the relationships between the speed of gastric ulcer healing and the levels of expression of Shh and IL1β.

Methods

The study included 45 patients (mean age 71.9 ± 9.0 years; M/F, 30/15) who underwent endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for gastric cancer, followed by standard dose of oral proton‐pump inhibitor for 4 weeks. Subsequently, the size of ESD‐induced artificial ulcers were measured to determine the speed of gastric ulcer healing, and regenerating mucosa around the ulcers and appropriately matched controls were collected from patients by endoscopic biopsy. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array analysis of genes in the Shh signaling pathway was performed, and quantitative reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR was used to measure IL1β mRNA.

Results

The levels of Shh and IL1β mRNA were 3.0 ± 2.7‐fold and 2.5 ± 2.5‐fold higher, respectively, in regenerating mucosa of artificial ulcers than in appropriately matched controls, with the two being positively correlated (r = 0.9, P < 0.001). Shh (r = 0.8, P < 0.001) and IL1β (r = 0.7, P < 0.005) expression was each positively correlated with the speed of gastric ulcer healing, but multivariate analysis showed that Shh expression was the only significant parameter (P = 0.045).

Conclusions

Expression of Shh was correlated with the speed of gastric ulcer healing, promoting the regeneration of gastric mucosa.
Recurrence of gastroesophageal reflux disease correlated with a short dinner‐to‐bedtime interval
Authors: Yang Jae Hoon , Kang Ho Suk , Lee Sun‐Young , Kim Jeong Hwan , Sung In‐Kyung , Park Hyung Seok , Shim Chan Sup , Jin Choon Jo
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can be classified into erosive reflux disease (ERD) and nonerosive gastroesophageal reflux disease (NERD). We aimed to compare the recurrence rates of ERD and NERD and determine the risk factors related to the recurrence.

Methods

This prospective study comprised 337 consecutive adults who completed questionnaires on their GERD symptoms, height, weight, sleeping position, dinner time, and bedtime. During upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, the presence of a hiatal hernia and mucosal breaks in the low esophagus, esophageal length (the distance between the Z‐line and the incisors), and the esophageal length‐to‐height ratio were recorded. Recurrence was diagnosed when the patient required additional proton pump inhibitor medication after initial recovery with 4–8 weeks of treatment.

Results

Recurrence was experienced by 47 (26.0%) of 181 GERD patients. The recurrence rate did not differ between the 48 ERD (27.1%) and 133 NERD (25.6%) patients (P = 0.849). Of the various factors studied, recurrence was found to be correlated with a dinner‐to‐bedtime interval of less than 3 h (P = 0.002), globus sensation (P = 0.031), and old age (P = 0.047). Logistic regression analysis revealed that a short interval between dinner and bedtime was the only factor significantly related to the recurrence (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Both ERD and NERD patients who sleep within 3 h after eating have a higher risk of GERD recurrence. Our findings highlight the impact of a short dinner‐to‐bedtime interval on the recurrence of GERD (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: KCT0000134).
Hepatocyte growth factor in dampening liver immune‐mediated pathology in acute viral hepatitis without compromising antiviral activity
Authors: Aguilar‐Valenzuela Renan , Carlsen Eric D. , Liang Yuejin , Soong Lynn , Sun Jiaren
Published: November 2013

Background and Aim

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a pleiotropic cytokine related with cell proliferation and survival; however, its role in viral hepatitis is not elucidated. In this study, we studied HGF immune role in viral hepatitis.

Methods

Mice received hydrodynamically delivered HGF plasmid or control plasmid and then infected with adenovirus, and parameters of immune‐mediated liver damage were evaluated. We studied dendritic cell (DC) activation in the presence of HGF. T cells collected from infected mice were restimulated with virally infected DC to measure cytokine production in vitro.

Results

HGF ameliorated the liver inflammation during viral hepatitis as alanine transferase, intrahepatic lymphocytes, and splenocyte counts were diminished by HGF. Lower histological scores of liver pathology were observed in the HGF group. DC from the HGF group expressed reduced CD40. The hepatic expression and serum concentration of IL‐12p40 were diminished in HGF‐transfected mice. In vitro experiments with DC confirmed that HGF diminished CD40 expression and IL‐12p40 production. The expression and serum levels of IFN‐γ, IL‐6 and CXCL9 were significantly decreased in the HGF group. HGF overexpression diminished the expression and concentration of IL‐10 and TGF‐β. The frequency of PD‐1+Tim‐3+ in CD8 T cells was decreased by HGF overexpression. Moreover, T cells in the HGF group at day 14 secreted more IFN‐γ and TNF‐α than those in the control group when restimulated with virally infected DC.

Conclusion

HGF modulated DC activation and T cell priming, thereby limiting the immune‐mediated damage in the liver. However, viral clearance was not compromised by HGF.
Israeli emergency department nurses' attitudes to an extension of their role and powers
Authors: Azuri Pazit , Haron Yafa , Riba Shoshana
Published: November 2013

Aims and objectives

To investigate the opinions of Israeli ED nurses as to (1) an expansion of their powers and autonomy in treating commonly presenting ED conditions, (2) whether nurses or physicians should be responsible for giving ED patients necessary information and (3) whether ED nurses should perform triage.

Background

The development of the new emergency nurse practitioner role has relieved the pressure on emergency departments, reduced patient waiting times and raised patient satisfaction. Israel has yet to introduce either this role or the triage approach into its emergency departments.

Design

This investigation was designed as a cross‐sectional study by self‐administered questionnaire.

Methods

The researchers distributed a questionnaire they had developed and validated to 270 registered nurses working in 18 general hospital emergency departments. The responses were analysed by chi‐square and t‐tests and anova.

Results

Of respondents 60–90% agreed that they should be granted 10 out of a list of 12 new powers, and a large majority thought nurses should be responsible for performing triage. They wanted to increase the information they gave to patients, both on general ED functioning and on specific medically related matters.

Conclusions

The contribution of this study is the positive response of a large representative sample of ED nurses to extending their powers. It will be necessary to establish postregistration training courses and draw up new regulations reshaping the delivery of emergency medicine.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study demonstrates that ED nurses are convinced that they need the authority to diagnose and treat commonly presenting ED conditions and perform triage and discharge in order for their department to optimally exploit the resources available to it. The study should promote the development of the emergency nurse practitioner role in Israel and so reduce patient waiting times.