bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral Protection and the Importance of Wolbachia Density and Tissue Tropism in Drosophila simulans
Authors: Osborne Sheree E. , Iturbe-Ormaetxe Iï¿½aki , Brownlie Jeremy C. , O'Neill Scott L. , Johnson Karyn N.
Published: July 2012

Wolbachia
, a maternally transmitted endosymbiont of insects, is increasingly being seen as an effective biological control agent that can interfere with transmission of pathogens, including dengue virus. However, the mechanism of antiviral protection is not well understood. The density and distribution of
Wolbachia
in host tissues have been implicated as contributing factors by previous studies with both mosquitoes and flies.
Drosophila
flies infected with five diverse strains of
Wolbachia
were screened for the ability to mediate antiviral protection. The three protective
Wolbachia
strains were more closely related and occurred at a higher density within whole flies than the two nonprotective
Wolbachia
strains. In this study, to further investigate the relationship between whole-fly
Wolbachia
density and the ability to mediate antiviral protection, tetracycline was used to decrease the abundance of the high-density, protective
Wolbachia
strain
w
Au prior to viral challenge. Antiviral protection was lost when the density of the protective
Wolbachia
strain was decreased to an abundance similar to that of nonprotective
Wolbachia
strains. We determined the
Wolbachia
density and distribution in tissues of the same five fly-
Wolbachia
combinations as used previously. The
Wolbachia
density within the head, gut, and Malpighian tubules correlated with the ability to mediate antiviral protection. These findings may facilitate the development of
Wolbachia
biological control strategies and help to predict host-
Wolbachia
pairings that may interfere with virus-induced pathology.
Draft Genome Sequence and Comparative Analysis of the Superb Aromatic-Hydrocarbon Degrader Rhodococcus sp. Strain DK17
Authors: Yoo Miyoun , Kim Dockyu , Choi Ki Young , Chae Jong-Chan , Zylstra Gerben J. , Kim Eungbin
Published: July 2012

Rhodococcus
sp. strain DK17 is capable of utilizing various derivatives of benzene and bicyclics containing both aromatic and alicyclic moieties as sole carbon and energy sources. Here, we present the 9,107,362-bp draft genome sequence of DK17 and its genomic analysis in comparison with other members of the genus
Rhodococcus
.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Metabolically Versatile Halophilic Archaeon Haloferax mediterranei, a Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-
co
-3-Hydroxyvalerate) Producer
Authors: Han Jing , Zhang Fan , Hou Jing , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Ming , Liu Hailong , Cai Lei , Zhang Bing , Chen Yaping , Zhou Jian , Hu Songnian , Xiang Hua
Published: July 2012

Haloferax mediterranei
, an extremely halophilic archaeon, has shown promise for production of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-
co
-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) from unrelated cheap carbon sources. Here we report the complete genome (3,904,707 bp) of
H. mediterranei
CGMCC 1.2087, consisting of one chromosome and three megaplasmids.
Genome Sequence of Pediococcus pentosaceus Strain IE-3
Authors: Midha Samriti , Ranjan Manish , Sharma Vikas , Kumari Annu , Singh Pradip Kumar , Korpole Suresh , Patil Prabhu B.
Published: July 2012

We report the 1.8-Mb genome sequence of
Pediococcus pentosaceus
strain IE-3, isolated from a dairy effluent sample. The whole-genome sequence of this strain will aid in comparative genomics of
Pediococcus pentosaceus
strains of diverse ecological origins and their biotechnological applications.
Complete Genome Sequences of Two Persicivirga Bacteriophages, P12024S and P12024L
Authors: Kang Ilnam , Jang Hani , Cho Jang-Cheon
Published: July 2012

The phylum
Bacteroidetes
is one of the major bacterial phyla in marine environments, where bacteriophages are highly abundant. Bacteriophages infecting members of the phylum
Bacteroidetes
, however, have not been well represented in public genome databases. Here we announce the genome sequences of two bacteriophages, P12024S and P12024L, that were isolated from coastal seawater and lytically infect
Persicivirga
sp. IMCC12024, a marine
Bacteroidete
s bacterium.
‘Miracle baby’: an outcome of multidisciplinary approach to neurotrauma in pregnancy
Authors: Neville Grace , Kaliaperumal Chandrasekaran , Kaar George
Published: July 2012

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) warranting neurosurgical intervention in the pregnant population is a rarity. We describe a case of a 27-year-old woman who at 13 weeks of gestation presented with multiple traumas having been involved in a near fatal road traffic accident. Glasgow Coma Scale was 6/15. CT brain showed extensive haemorrhagic contusions, diffuse brain swelling and multiple skull and facial fractures. Decompressive craniectomy was performed to control her intracranial pressure during her management in the intensive care. A viable intrauterine pregnancy was confirmed and progressed as maternal stabilisation and rehabilitation continued. At 35+3 weeks a 2770 g male child was delivered via emergency caesarean section after spontaneous onset of labour. The child had no detectable abnormalities and is clinically well. Eight months post-TBI the patient continues to make gradual improvements but is left with severe cognitive impairment and currently undergoing rehabilitation. A multidisciplinary approach was adopted in the management of this patient.
Emergency cricothyroidotomy performed by inexperienced clinicians—surgical technique versus indicator-guided puncture technique
Authors: Helm Matthias , Hossfeld Björn , Jost Christian , Lampl Lorenz , Böckers Tobias
Published: July 2012

Background

To improve the ease and safety of cricothyroidotomy especially in the hand of the inexperienced, new instruments have been developed. In this study, we compared a new indicator-guided puncture technique (PCK) with standard surgical technique (ST) regarding success rate, performance time and complications.

Methods

Cricothyroidotomy in 30 human cadavers performed by 30 first year anaesthesia residents. The set chosen for use was randomised: PCK-technique (n=15) and ST (n=15). Success rates, insertion times and complications were compared. Traumatic lesions were anatomically confirmed after dissection.

Results

The ST-group had a higher success rate (100% vs 67%; p=0.04). There was no difference in time taken to complete the procedure (PCK 82 s. vs ST 95 s.; p=0.89). There was a higher complication rate in the PCK-group (67% vs 13%; p=0.04). Most frequent complication in the PCK-group was injury to the posterior tracheal wall (n=8), penetration to the oesophageal lumen (n=4) and injury to the thyroid and/or cricoid cartilage (n=5). In the ST-group in only 2 cases minor complications were observed (small vessel injury).

Conclusions

In this human cadaver study the PCK technique produced more major complications and more failures than the ST. In the hand of the inexperienced operator the standard surgical approach seems to be a safe procedure, which can successfully be performed within an adequate time. The PCK technique cannot be recommended for inexperienced operators.
Cropping practices modulate the impact of glyphosate on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and rhizosphere bacteria in agroecosystems of the semiarid prairie
Authors: Sheng Min , Hamel Chantal , Fernandez Myriam R.
Published: July 2012

A growing body of evidence obtained from studies performed under controlled conditions suggests that glyphosate use can modify microbial community assemblages. However, few studies have examined the influence of glyphosate in agroecosystems. We examined 4 wheat-based production systems typical of the Canadian prairie over 2 years to answer the following question: Does preseeding of glyphosate impact soil rhizosphere microorganisms? If so, do cropping practices influence this impact? Glyphosate caused a shift in the species dominating the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal community in the rhizosphere, possibly through the modification of host plant physiology. Glyphosate stimulated rhizobacterial growth while having no influence on saprotrophic fungi, suggesting a greater abundance of glyphosate-tolerant 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS) in bacteria than in fungi. Glyphosate stimulated rhizosphere bacteria in pea but not in urea-fertilized durum wheat, which is consistent with inhibition of EPSPS tolerance to residual glyphosate through high ammonium levels. Mitigation of the effects of glyphosate on rhizosphere bacteria through tillage suggests a reduction in residual glyphosate activity through increased adsorption to soil binding sites upon soil mixing. The influence of glyphosate on Gram-negative bacteria was mitigated under drought conditions in 2007. Our experiment suggests that interactions between soil fertility, tillage, and cropping practices shape the influence of glyphosate use on rhizosphere microorganisms.
The Antioxidant Tempol Reduces Carcinogenesis and Enhances Survival in Mice When Administered after Nonlethal Total Body Radiation
Authors: Mitchell James B. , Anver Miriam R. , Sowers Anastasia L. , Rosenberg Philip S. , Figueroa Maria , Thetford Angela , Krishna Murali C. , Albert Paul S. , Cook John A.
Published: July 2012

There is significant interest in the development of agents that can ameliorate radiation damage after exposure to radiation has occurred. Here we report that chronic supplementation of the antioxidant Tempol in the diet of mice can reduce body weight without toxicity, decrease cancer, and extend survival when administered after nonlethal total body radiation (TBI). These effects were apparent in two different strains of mice (C3H, CBA) exposed to TBI (3 Gy). Notably, delaying administration of the Tempol diet one month after TBI could also enhance survival. Tempol reduced the incidence of hematopoietic neoplasms (lymphomas) in both strains, whereas both the onset and incidence of nonhematopoietic neoplasms were reduced in CBA mice. These results encourage further study of Tempol as a chemopreventive, to reduce the incidence of radiation-induced second malignancies after a course of definitive radiation therapy. Tempol may also find applications to reduce the risk of cancers in populations exposed to nonlethal radiation due to nuclear accidents or terrorist attacks. Cancer Res; 72(18); 4846–55. ©2012 AACR.
Antibodies to Wheat High-Molecular-Weight Glutenin Subunits in Patients with Celiac Disease
Authors: Ellis H. Julia , Lozano-Sanchez Pablo , Bermudo Redondo Carmen , Šuligoj Tanja , Biagi Federico , Bianchi Paola I. , Corazza Gino R. , De Silvestri Annalisa , Bravi Enzo , Katakis Ioanis , O’Sullivan Ciara K. , Ciclitira Paul J.
Published: July 2012

Background: Wheat gluten comprises gliadins and glutenins. The high-molecular-weight (HMW) glutenin subunits (GS)-1Dy10 are toxic for patients with celiac disease (CD). This study aimed to assess whether CD patients mount a serological response to HMW-GS-1Dy10. Methods: Recombinant HMW-GS-1Dy10 was deamidated using human recombinant tissue transglutaminase. MALDI-TOF was performed to compare the level of deamidation of glutamine residues between material before and after treatment. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were developed. Sera from patients with untreated CD and gastrointestinal disease controls were tested and receiver operator characteristics were used to calculate cutoffs. Results: MALDI-TOF revealed a number of fragments matching known HMW-GS-1Dy10 sequences within both the deamidated and non-deamidated material. Evidence of deamidation of glutamine residues was found only within the human transglutaminase-treated material. Patients with untreated CD had significantly increased levels of serum antibodies to HMW-GS-1Dy10 compared to controls. Undeamidated HMW-GS-1Dy10 IgA antibodies had sensitivities and specificities of 72.5 and 78.26%, respectively. Deamidated HMW-GS-1Dy10 IgA antibodies had sensitivities and specificities of 76.8 and 65.2%. Undeamidated HMW-GS-1Dy10 IgG antibodies had sensitivities and specificities of 75.3 and 68.1%. Deamidated HMW-GS-1Dy10 IgG antibodies had sensitivities and specificities of 36.2 and 92.8%. Conclusion: Patients with untreated CD have raised antibody levels to HMW-GS-1Dy10, indicating the participation of these proteins in the adaptive immune response to gluten. Discrimination between CD patients and controls is not enhanced by deamidation of HMW-GS-1Dy10. Thus antibodies to these proteins are not useful markers for CD detection.
Can Positive Social Exchanges Buffer the Detrimental Effects of Negative Social Exchanges? Age and Gender Differences
Authors: Fiori Katherine L. , Windsor Tim D. , Pearson Elissa L. , Crisp Dimity A.
Published: July 2012

Background: Findings from existing research exploring whether positive social exchanges can help to offset (or ‘buffer’ against) the harmful effects of negative social exchanges on mental health have been inconsistent. This could be because the existing research is characterized by different approaches to studying various contexts of ‘cross-domain’ and ‘within-domain’ buffering, and/or because the nature of buffering effects varies according to sociodemographic characteristics that underlie different aspects of social network structure and function. Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine whether the buffering effects of global perceptions of positive exchanges on the link between global negative exchanges and mental health varied as a function of age and gender. Method: We used a series of regressions in a sample of 556 Australian older adults (ages 55–94) to test for three-way interactions among gender, positive social exchanges, and negative social exchanges, as well as age and positive and negative social exchanges, in predicting mental health, controlling for years of education, partner status, and physical functioning. Results: We found that positive exchanges buffered against negative exchanges for younger old adults, but not for older old adults, and for women, but not for men. Conclusions: Our findings are interpreted in light of research on individual differences in coping responses and interpersonal goals among late middle-aged and older adults. Our findings are in line with gerontological theories (e.g. socioemotional selectivity theory), and imply that an intervention aimed at using positive social exchanges as a means of coping with negative social exchanges might be more successful among particular populations (i.e. women, ‘younger’ old adults).
Low Myocardial Protein Kinase G Activity in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Authors: van Heerebeek Loek , Hamdani Nazha , Falcão-Pires Inês , Leite-Moreira Adelino F. , Begieneman Mark P.V. , Bronzwaer Jean G.F. , van der Velden Jolanda , Stienen Ger J.M. , Laarman Gerrit J. , Somsen Aernout , Verheugt Freek W.A. , Niessen Hans W.M. , Paulus Walter J.
Published: July 2012

Background—

Prominent features of myocardial remodeling in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFPEF) are high cardiomyocyte resting tension (F
passive
) and cardiomyocyte hypertrophy. In experimental models, both reacted favorably to raised protein kinase G (PKG) activity. The present study assessed myocardial PKG activity, its downstream effects on cardiomyocyte F
passive
and cardiomyocyte diameter, and its upstream control by cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), nitrosative/oxidative stress, and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP). To discern altered control of myocardial remodeling by PKG, HFPEF was compared with aortic stenosis and HF with reduced EF (HFREF).

Methods and Results—

Patients with HFPEF (n=36), AS (n=67), and HFREF (n=43) were free of coronary artery disease. More HFPEF patients were obese (
P
<0.05) or had diabetes mellitus (
P
<0.05). Left ventricular myocardial biopsies were procured transvascularly in HFPEF and HFREF and perioperatively in aortic stenosis. F
passive
was measured in cardiomyocytes before and after PKG administration. Myocardial homogenates were used for assessment of PKG activity, cGMP concentration, proBNP-108 expression, and nitrotyrosine expression, a measure of nitrosative/oxidative stress. Additional quantitative immunohistochemical analysis was performed for PKG activity and nitrotyrosine expression. Lower PKG activity in HFPEF than in aortic stenosis (
P
<0.01) or HFREF (
P
<0.001) was associated with higher cardiomyocyte F
passive
(
P
<0.001) and related to lower cGMP concentration (
P
<0.001) and higher nitrosative/oxidative stress (
P
<0.05). Higher F
passive
in HFPEF was corrected by in vitro PKG administration.

Conclusions—

Low myocardial PKG activity in HFPEF was associated with raised cardiomyocyte F
passive
and was related to increased myocardial nitrosative/oxidative stress. The latter was probably induced by the high prevalence in HFPEF of metabolic comorbidities. Correction of myocardial PKG activity could be a target for specific HFPEF treatment.
Differences in Clinical Profile of Individuals With Severe and Markedly Elevated Coronary Artery Calcification Detected by Electron Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Koulaouzidis G. , Charisopoulou D. , Maffrett S. , Tighe M. , Jenkins P. J. , McArthur T.
Published: July 2012

Although several studies have demonstrated the association between coronary artery calcification (CAC) and coronary artery disease events, the underlying mechanism has not been fully elucidated. Furthermore, extensive CAC still remains a poorly understood phenomenon. The objective of this study is to determine the clinical characteristics and differences between 831 asymptomatic individuals with very high CAC scores (CACS ≥1000) and 497 asymptomatic individuals with CAC scores of 400 to 999. Individuals with CACS ≥1000 were more likely to have hypertension ([HTN]; P = .0004), hypercholesterolemia ( P = .0001), diabetes mellitus ([DM] P = .005), and high body mass index ([BMI]; P = .03) compared with individuals with CACS = 400-999. On multivariable analysis, age ( P < .0001) and BMI ( P = .01) were found to be significant risk factors for the presence of very high CAC. While for males, age ( P < .0001), hypercholesterolemia ( P = .001), DM ( P = .002), and obesity ( P = .003) were independent risk factors; in females only HTN ( P = .04) was independent risk factor.
Examining Frank J. Goodnow’s Hegelian Heritage
Authors: Rosser Christian
Published: July 2012

This study examines the extent to which Goodnow’s ideas about public administration were informed by Hegelian political philosophy. Hegel’s reflections on the characteristics of the state and public administration came to Goodnow’s attention from such scholars as John Burgess, Francis Lieber, Lorenz von Stein, Johann C. Bluntschli, and Rudolph von Gneist. Hegelian philosophy helped Goodnow to deal with the intellectual challenges of the progressive era. The article concludes with a discussion of Hegelian political philosophy as a source of inspiration for contemporary administrative ethics.
Understanding the Differences Between Vendor Types in Local Governance
Authors: Lamothe Scott , Lamothe Meeyoung
Published: July 2012

It is commonly posited that for-profit, nonprofit, and other government vendors have fundamental differences, which make one or the other the superior choice depending on the circumstances of service delivery. Past research, focusing on service and market characteristics, finds support for this proposition. In this article, we investigate not only the typical theoretical expectations regarding vendor traits, service characteristics, and market conditions associated with the sectors, but also the presumed trustworthiness and management practices that are argued to differentiate them in an effort to better understand the roles played by each in local government contracting. Our findings indicate that as expected, nonprofits are most commonly employed when dealing with hard to define, “soft” services with weak markets. However, contrary to expectations, nonprofits are not generally considered more trustworthy than for-profits and are not managed more “loosely” (i.e., more ambiguous contracts, more discretion exercised in sanctioning) than their for-profit peers. Rather, public vendors seem to be the most trusted and are managed less rigidly than contractors from the other sectors.
Bilateral paroxysmal cephalalgia: A novel indomethacin-responsive primary headache syndrome?
Authors: Bakar Norazah Abu , Chard Declan , Matharu Manjit S
Published: July 2012

Introduction:

Paroxysmal hemicrania (PH) is a primary headache disorder characterised by frequent, short-lasting, very severe, strictly unilateral attacks occurring in association with cranial autonomic features. A striking feature of this disorder is its clear response to indomethacin.

Case report:

In contrast to this stereotypic presentation, we describe a man with indomethacin-responsive headaches that have a temporal profile similar to that of PH but whose attacks have a bilateral distribution without associated cranial autonomic features.

Discussion:

There have been several case reports of patients presenting with short-lasting, frequent, bilateral headaches responding to indomethacin, without cranial autonomic features. These cases have been described as representing bilateral PH although strict unilaterality of pain and cranial autonomic phenomena are cardinal features of PH. These cases may represent a novel indomethacin-responsive syndrome and therefore, for now, should be studied separately from PH until their pathophysiological basis is better understood.
Contact surface motion paths associated with leg length inequality following unilateral total hip replacement
Authors: Budenberg Sarah , Redmond Anthony , White Derek , Grainger Andrew , O’Connor Philip , Stone Martin H , Stewart Todd D
Published: July 2012

In the past, there has been little research into leg length inequality (LLI) and its effect on hip arthroplasty bearing longevity. This investigation aimed to determine the effects of post-operative LLI on hip motions during gait and to postulate the subsequent influence on the wear of the artificial hip joint replacement. Motion data from a clinical gait analysis were processed with an in-house computational model to plot graphs showing the movement of loci of 20 points on the femoral head during one gait cycle for two cohorts: 19 LLI patients and 38 normal healthy patients. Loci paths were quantified by calculating the aspect ratio (AR) of the path shape. It was found that on average, LLI patients had a reduction in flexion/extension and abduction/adduction. Furthermore, the AR of LLI patients was found to be 8% smaller than the normal group. The shorter, more multidirectional, motion paths in LLI patients would suggest the potential for greater wear in a polyethylene bearing compared to an asymptomatic, non-LLI patient. The results have potential implications towards preclinical wear testing of joint replacements.
Transformative learning: Participant perspectives on international experiential education
Authors: Intolubbe-Chmil Loren , Spreen Carol Anne , Swap Robert J.
Published: July 2012

Literature related to post-secondary education suggests that institutions of higher education have at their core ‘a civic mission that calls on faculty, students, and administrators to apply their skills, resources, and talents to address important issues affecting communities, the nation, and the world’ conceptualized as ‘engaged scholarship’ (Stanton, 2008). In this article we illustrate the ways in which one study abroad program embraces a model of engaged scholarship though connections to a broader cross-cultural and interdisciplinary network. We demonstrate how long-term international collaborations and field-based experiential learning opportunities between US and southern African institutions reflect core principles of relationships, respect and reciprocity, providing opportunities for purposeful and culturally grounded transformative student learning experiences. One key aspect of this network was to design study abroad opportunities that create pedagogical alternatives that influence civic identity development, build cultural competence, enhance notions of citizenship, and emphasize community engagement. This article presents the findings from a formative evaluation of the experiences of a number of the undergraduate students and others who have participated in the study abroad component of this network.
Community mental health and social exclusion: Working appreciatively towards inclusion
Authors: Fieldhouse Jon , Onyett Steve
Published: July 2012

A central feature of community mental health practice is the social inclusion of its service users. This involves opening up life opportunities in the mainstream community, requiring collaboration with community partners. A group of mental health service managers, practitioners, service users and representatives from the Further Education community worked together for 18 months to promote social inclusion for local service users and used appreciative inquiry and co-operative inquiry methods to explore and enhance this work. This article discusses the methodological nuances of this fusion of approaches. It underlines the benefits of an appreciative approach for addressing historically rooted patterns of practice within statutory mental health services, and highlights how harnessing an extended epistemology can bring together impetus from ‘top down’ and ‘bottom up’ to create actionable plans. The article describes what was learned about optimal inter-agency working and about trying to be a change agent in a large organization. It concludes with reflections on the suitability of participatory action research methods for developing community-orientated mental health services.
Overexpression of cell cycle regulator CDCA3 promotes oral cancer progression by enhancing cell proliferation with prevention of G1 phase arrest
Authors: Uchida Fumihiko , Uzawa Katsuhiro , Kasamatsu Atsushi , Takatori Hiroaki , Sakamoto Yosuke , Ogawara Katsunori , Shiiba Masashi , Tanzawa Hideki , Bukawa Hiroki
Published: July 2012

Background

Cell division cycle associated 3 (CDCA3), part of the Skp1-cullin-F-box (SCF) ubiquitin ligase, refers to a trigger of mitotic entry and mediates destruction of the mitosis inhibitory kinase. Little is known about the relevance of CDCA3 to human malignancy including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We aimed to characterize the expression state and function of CDCA3 in OSCC.

Methods

We evaluated CDCA3 mRNA and protein expression in both OSCC-derived cell lines and primary OSCCs and performed functional analyses of CDCA3 in OSCC-derived cells using the shRNA system.

Results

The CDCA3 expression at both the mRNA and protein levels was frequently up-regulated in all cell lines examined and primary tumors (mRNA, 51/69, 74 %; protein, 79/95, 83 %) compared to normal controls (p < 0.001). In contrast, no significant level of CDCA3 protein expression was seen in oral premalignant lesions (OPLs) (n = 20) compared with the expression in OSCCs. Among the clinical variables analyzed, the CDCA3 expression status was closely related to tumor size (p < 0.05). In addition, suppression of CDCA3 expression with shRNA significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited cellular proliferation compared with the control cells by arresting cell-cycle progression at the G1 phase. Further, there was up-regulation of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (p21Cip1, p27Kip1, p15INK4B, and p16INK4A) in the knockdown cells.

Conclusion

The current results showed that overexpression of CDCA3 occurs frequently during oral carcinogenesis and this overexpression might be associated closely with progression of OSCCs by preventing the arrest of cell-cycle progression at the G1 phase via decreased expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors.
Biological activities of extracts from Chenopodium ambrosioides Lineu and Kielmeyera neglecta Saddi
Authors: Sousa Zulane Lima , de Oliveira Fernando Faustino , da Conceição Aline Oliveira , Silva Luiz Alberto Mattos , Rossi Maria Helena , Santos Julianada Silva , Andrioli João Luciano
Published: July 2012

Background

Chenopodium ambrosioides and Kielmeyera neglecta are plants traditionally used in Brazil to treat various infectious diseases. The study of the biological activities of these plants is of great importance for the detection of biologically active compounds.

Methods

Extracts from these plants were extracted with hexane (Hex), dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc) and ethanol (EtOH) and assessed for their antimicrobial properties, bioactivity against Artemia salina Leach and antifungal action on the cell wall of Neurospora crassa.

Results

Extracts from C. ambrosioides (Hex, DCM and EtOH) and K. neglecta (EtOAc and EtOH) showed high bioactivity against A. salina (LD50 < 1000 μg/mL), which might be associated with cytotoxic activity against cancer cells. C. ambrosioides Hex and DCM showed specific activity against yeasts, highlighting the activity of hexanic extract against Candida krusei (MIC = 100 μg/mL). By comparing the inhibitory concentration of 50% growth (IC 50%) with the growth control, extracts from K. neglecta EtOAc and EtOH have shown activities against multidrug-resistant bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 51299 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300), with IC 50% of 12.5 μg/mL The assay carried out on N. crassa allowed defining that extracts with antifungal activity do not have action through inhibition of cell wall synthesis.

Conclusions

Generally speaking, extracts from C. ambrosioides and K. neglecta showed biological activities that have made the search for bioactive substances in these plants more attractive, illustrating the success of their use in the Brazilian folk medicine.
Design and Evaluation of a new mechatronic platform for assessment and prevention of fall risks
Authors: Bassi Luciani Lorenzo , Genovese Vincenzo , Monaco Vito , Odetti Luca , Cattin Emanuele , Micera Silvestro
Published: July 2012

Background

Studying the responses in human behaviour to external perturbations during daily motor tasks is of key importance for understanding mechanisms of balance control and for investigating the functional response of targeted subjects. Experimental platforms as far developed entail a low number of perturbations and, only in few cases, have been designed to measure variables used at run time to trigger events during a certain motor task.

Methods

This work introduces a new mechatronic device, named SENLY, that provides balance perturbations while subjects carry out daily motor tasks (e.g., walking, upright stance). SENLY mainly consists of two independently-controlled treadmills that destabilize balance by suddenly perturbing belts movements in the horizontal plane. It is also provided with force sensors, which can be used at run time to estimate the ground reaction forces and identify events along the gait cycle in order to trigger the platform perturbation. The paper also describes the customized procedures adopted to calibrate the platform and the first testing trials aimed at evaluating its performance.

Results

SENLY allows to measure both vertical ground reaction forces and their related location more precisely and more accurately than other platforms of the same size. Moreover, the platform kinematic and kinetic performance meets all required specifications, with a negligible influence of the instrumental noise.

Conclusion

A new perturbing platform able to reproduce different slipping paradigms while measuring GRFs at run time in order to enable the asynchronous triggering during the gait cycle was designed and developed. Calibration procedures and pilot tests show that SENLY allows to suitably estimate dynamical features of the load and to standardize experimental sessions, improving the efficacy of functional analysis.
Canine and feline parasitic zoonoses in China
Authors: Chen Jia , Xu Min-Jun , Zhou Dong-Hui , Song Hui-Qun , Wang Chun-Ren , Zhu Xing-Quan
Published: July 2012

Canine and feline parasitic zoonoses have not been given high priority in China, although the role of companion animals as reservoirs for zoonotic parasitic diseases has been recognized worldwide. With an increasing number of dogs and cats under unregulated conditions in China, the canine and feline parasitic zoonoses are showing a trend towards being gradually uncontrolled. Currently, canine and feline parasitic zoonoses threaten human health, and cause death and serious diseases in China. This article comprehensively reviews the current status of major canine and feline parasitic zoonoses in mainland China, discusses the risks dogs and cats pose with regard to zoonotic transmission of canine and feline parasites, and proposes control strategies and measures.
Hyaluronan injection in murine osteoarthritis prevents TGFbeta 1-induced synovial neovascularization and fibrosis and maintains articular cartilage integrity by a CD44-dependent mechanism
Authors: Li Jun , Gorski Daniel J , Anemaet Wendy , Velasco Jennifer , Takeuchi Jun , Sandy John D , Plaas Anna
Published: July 2012

Introduction

The mechanism by which intra-articular injection of hyaluronan (HA) ameliorates joint pathology is unknown. Animal studies have shown that HA can reduce synovial activation, periarticular fibrosis and cartilage erosion; however, its specific effects on the different cell types involved remain unclear. We have used the TTR (TGFbeta1 injection and Treadmill Running) model of murine osteoarthritis (OA), which exhibits many OA-like changes, including synovial activation, to examine in vivo tissue-specific effects of intra-articular HA.

Methods

The kinetics of clearance of fluorotagged HA from joints was examined with whole-body imaging. Naïve and treated knee joints were examined macroscopically for cartilage erosion, meniscal damage and fibrosis. Quantitative histopathology was done with Safranin O for cartilage and with Hematoxylin & Eosin for synovium. Gene expression in joint tissues for Acan, Col1a1, Col2a1, Col3a1, Col5a1, Col10a1, Adamts5 and Mmp13 was done by quantitative PCR. The abundance and distribution of aggrecan, collagen types I, II, III, V and X, ADAMTS5 and MMP13 were examined by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Injected HA showed a half-life of less than 2 h in the murine knee joint. At the tissue level, HA protected against neovascularization and fibrosis of the meniscus/synovium and maintained articular cartilage integrity in wild-type but not in Cd44 knockout mice. HA injection enhanced the expression of chondrogenic genes and proteins and blocked that of fibrogenic/degradative genes and proteins in cartilage/subchondral bone, whereas it blocked activation of both groups in meniscus/synovium. In all locations it reduced the expression/protein for Mmp13 and blocked Adamts5 expression but not its protein abundance in the synovial lining.

Conclusions

The injection of HA, 24 h after TGFbeta1 injection, inhibited the cascade of OA-like joint changes seen after treadmill use in the TTR model of OA. In terms of mechanism, tissue protection by HA injection was abrogated by Cd44 ablation, suggesting that interaction of the injected HA with CD44 is central to its protective effects on joint tissue remodeling and degeneration in OA progression.
The gene expression landscape of breast cancer is shaped by tumor protein p53 status and epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Fredlund Erik , Staaf Johan , Rantala Juha K , Kallioniemi Olli , Borg Åke , Ringnér Markus
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Gene expression data derived from clinical cancer specimens provide an opportunity to characterize cancer-specific transcriptional programs. Here, we present an analysis delineating a correlation-based gene expression landscape of breast cancer that identifies modules with strong associations to breast cancer-specific and general tumor biology.

Methods

Modules of highly connected genes were extracted from a gene co-expression network that was constructed based on Pearson correlation, and module activities were then calculated using a pathway activity score. Functional annotations of modules were experimentally validated with an siRNA cell spot microarray system using the KPL-4 breast cancer cell line, and by using gene expression data from functional studies. Modules were derived using gene expression data representing 1,608 breast cancer samples and validated in data sets representing 971 independent breast cancer samples as well as 1,231 samples from other cancer forms.

Results

The initial co-expression network analysis resulted in the characterization of eight tightly regulated gene modules. Cell cycle genes were divided into two transcriptional programs, and experimental validation using an siRNA screen showed different functional roles for these programs during proliferation. The division of the two programs was found to act as a marker for tumor protein p53 (TP53) gene status in luminal breast cancer, with the two programs being separated only in luminal tumors with functional p53 (encoded by TP53). Moreover, a module containing fibroblast and stroma-related genes was highly expressed in fibroblasts, but was also up-regulated by overexpression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition factors such as transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta1) and Snail in immortalized human mammary epithelial cells. Strikingly, the stroma transcriptional program related to less malignant tumors for luminal disease and aggressive lymph node positive disease among basal-like tumors.

Conclusions

We have derived a robust gene expression landscape of breast cancer that reflects known subtypes as well as heterogeneity within these subtypes. By applying the modules to TP53-mutated samples we shed light on the biological consequences of non-functional p53 in otherwise low-proliferating luminal breast cancer. Furthermore, as in the case of the stroma module, we show that the biological and clinical interpretation of a set of co-regulated genes is subtype-dependent.
Bacille Calmette-Guerin disease following Bacille Calmette-Guerin vaccination of an HIV-infected health-care worker
Authors: Vera J H , Hill S C , Rubinstein L
Published: July 2012

We present a case of Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) lymphadenitis following immunization of a health-care worker with risk factors for HIV but undiagnosed infection. This case highlights the potential risks of BCG and clearly demonstrates the need to consider HIV testing in all patients prior to BCG vaccination.
Clinical care versus ethical obligations: HIV-1 and -2 co-infection with hepatitis B in a pregnant Jehovah's Witness
Authors: Quinn K J , Mccarty E J , Dinsmore W M , Quah S P
Published: July 2012

Co-infection with HIV-1 and -2 is rare, even in west Africa. We present the case of a 38-year-old pregnant Jehovah's Witness presenting late in pregnancy with triple infection with HIV-1, HIV-2 and hepatitis B virus. There was a successful outcome in averting vertical transmission despite objections to management based on religious and cultural beliefs.
Lipodystrophy and reversal of facial lipoatrophy in perinatally HIV-infected children and adolescents after discontinuation of stavudine
Authors: Sawawiboon N , Wittawatmongkol O , Phongsamart W , Prasitsuebsai W , Lapphra K , Chokephaibulkit K
Published: July 2012

Lipodystrophy (LD) was evaluated in 205 children receiving antiretroviral therapy by a single investigator: 51 (24.9%) had LD; 46 peripheral lipoatrophy, three central lipohypertrophy and two combined type. All cases of peripheral and combined LD also had facial lipoatrophy. Serial photographs were provided by the families to confirm the severity of facial lipoatrophy. Forty-six (95.8%) children with peripheral or combined LD, and 75 (48.7%) without LD were exposed to stavudine (d4T) for a median duration of 45.9 versus 26.4 months (P = 0.005). In multivariate analysis, exposure to d4T for more than three months was the only factor associated with peripheral or combined LD (P < 0.001). Noticeable improvement of facial lipoatrophy was found in 11/48 (22.9%) children after a mean duration of 45.6 months following d4T discontinuation, mostly occurring during early adolescence.
Skin and soft tissue infections among HIV-infected persons in the late combination antiretroviral therapy era
Authors: Crum-Cianflone N F , Grandits G , Weintrob A , Ganesan A , Agan B , Landrum M
Published: July 2012

Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) occur at higher rates among HIV-infected persons, but current trends and risk factors are largely undefined. We evaluated SSTIs among a prospective cohort of HIV-infected persons during the late combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era (2006–2010). Of the 1918 HIV-infected persons evaluated, 379 (20%) developed an SSTI during a median of 3.7 years of follow-up; of these, 118 (31 %) developed at least one recurrent SSTI. The incidence rate of SSTIs was 101 (95% confidence interval [CI] 93–109) cases per 1000 person-years, and rates did not significantly change during the study period. Compared with not receiving cART and having an HIV RNA level >1000 copies/mL, patients receiving cART with an HIV RNA level <1000 copies/mL had a reduced risk of an SSTI (hazard ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.48–0.86, P < 0.01). In summary, initial and recurrent SSTIs are common among HIV-infected persons, and HIV control is associated with a lower risk of SSTIs.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus as a cause of genital ulcer-adenopathy syndrome
Authors: Dosekun O , White Ja
Published: July 2012

The differential diagnosis in anogenital ulcer-adenopathy syndrome in men who have sex with men (MSM) is becoming more complex, particularly with lymphogranuloma venereum and syphilis re-establishing endemicity among MSM. Sexual contact has been shown to transmit methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), probably through intimate skin-to-skin contact. We present a case of MRSA genital ulceration and local lymphadenopathy in a man whose sexual partners are men, reporting high-risk sexual behaviour, highlighting the importance of also considering MRSA infection in these cases, and the potential for spread of MRSA infection in the MSM community.
Virological failure at one year in triple-class experienced patients switching to raltegravir-based regimens is not predicted by baseline factors
Authors: Bucciardini R , D'ettorre G , Baroncelli S , Ceccarelli G , Parruti G , Weimer L E , Fragola V , Galluzzo C M , Pirillo M F , Lucattini S , Bellagamba R , Francisci D , Ladisa N , Antoni A Degli , Guaraldi G , Manconi P E , Vullo V , Preziosi R , Cirioni O , Verucchi G , Floridia M
Published: July 2012

We evaluated rates and determinants of virological failure in triple-class experienced patients receiving raltegravir-based regimens from a national observational study over 48 weeks, defined by any one of the following: (1) no HIV-RNA suppression to undetectable levels (<50 copies/mL) during follow-up; (2) detectable viral load after obtaining undetectable levels; and (3) leaving the study before 48 weeks. Among 101 eligible patients, 26 (25.7%; 95% CI 17.2–34.2) had virological failure. No significant differences between patients with and without virological failure were observed for gender, age, route of transmission, baseline CD4/HIV-RNA, CDC group, hepatitis B or C co-infections, resistance (based on the last genotype available), type and number of concomitant drug classes, concomitant use of darunavir, atazanavir, etravirine, enfuvirtide or maraviroc, and health-related quality-of-life measures. A high rate of treatment response was observed. The analyses did not identify any baseline factor associated with failure, including resistance status. Even if we cannot exclude the presence of pre-existing minority resistant variants not captured by genotypic tests, the lack of baseline predictors of failure suggests the need to monitor patients closely during follow up for other factors, such as potential drug interactions and reduced levels of adherence, which may favour virological failure.
Outcome of partner notification in patients diagnosed with genital warts attending a provincial clinic in East Anglia, England
Authors: Mercer L , Harry T C
Published: July 2012

We retrospectively reviewed partner notification of patients diagnosed with first episode genital warts seen in the genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic, Great Yarmouth, UK, from January 2005 to December 2008. Of 947 patients diagnosed with genital warts, 486 (51.3%) were men, median age 25 years; 461 (48.7%) were women, median age 21 years and the partner notification index was 32.9%. In our cohort, 310 patients 33.2% reported having had a casual partner that could not be traced. The median relationship duration of partners whose contact attended was nine months and those whose contact did not attend was two months, (χ2 = 49.72, P < 0.0001). The odds ratio (OR) of a contact attending after seeing a health adviser was 2.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.79–4.86). In our cohort 35.6% of contacts whose partners saw a health adviser attended compared with 15.7% of contacts whose partner did not see a health adviser (χ2 = 19.7, P < 0.0001). Among the contacts 26% had genital warts, 28% had another sexually transmitted infection (STI) and 12% had both genital warts and another STI. The low partner notification index was associated with the reported casual partnerships seen in the cohort. Partner notification was enhanced when patients saw a health adviser.
Life in the slow lane: making hospitals safer, slowly but surely
Authors: Walker Judy , Andrews Steve , Grewcock Dave , Halligan Aidan
Published: July 2012

Recognition that serious deficiencies in mutual respect and team work were hampering safe and effective patient care led to the creation of the cultural change initiative described here. We feel this has widespread applicability to other healthcare settings. The After Action Review (AAR) concept was adapted for use in the NHS for the first time as it provides a deceptively simple vehicle to structure healthy blame free team interactions with the aim of improving practice and team behaviours. The organizational and psychological barriers to being able to do this in multi-professional teams are accentuated by the hierarchical nature of the clinical context, but this project has begun to make lasting change so that AAR is an approach that is now widely understood and frequently used.
The role of the design of tibial components and stems in knee replacement
Authors: Scott C. E. H. , Biant L. C.
Published: July 2012

Stems improve the mechanical stability of tibial components in total knee replacement (TKR), but come at a cost of stress shielding along their length. Their advantages include resistance to shear, reduced tibial lift-off and increased stability by reducing micromotion. Longer stems may have disadvantages including stress shielding along the length of the stem with associated reduction in bone density and a theoretical risk of subsidence and loosening, peri-prosthetic fracture and end-of-stem pain. These features make long stems unattractive in the primary TKR setting, but often desirable in revision surgery with bone loss and instability. In the revision scenario, stems are beneficial in order to convey structural stability to the construct and protect the reconstruction of bony defects. Cemented and uncemented long stemmed implants have different roles depending on the nature of the bone loss involved.

This review discusses the biomechanics of the design of tibial components and stems to inform the selection of the component and the technique of implantation.