bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor analysis of the Spanish Burnout Inventory among public administration employees
Authors: Carlotto Mary Sandra , Gil‐Monte Pedro R. , Figueiredo‐Ferraz Hugo
Published: October 2014

Burnout has been recognized as an important stress‐related problem. Researchers have been troubled by some of the psychometric limitations of the questionnaires developed to evaluate burnout. This study was designed to assess the factor structure of the Spanish Burnout Inventory in a sample of 548 Brazilian public administration employees. This instrument comprises 20 items distributed in four dimensions: enthusiasm toward the job (5 items), psychological exhaustion (4 items), indolence (6 items), and guilt (5 items). The factor structure was examined through confirmatory factor analysis. To assess the factorial validity of the Spanish Burnout Inventory, four alternative models were tested. The four‐factor model obtained an adequate data fit for the sample, χ2(164) = 514.358, p < .001, RMSEA = .062, GFI = .910, NFI = .915, CFI = .940, and AIC = 606.358. The results showed that the four‐model factor of the Spanish Burnout Inventory possesses adequate psychometric properties in the Brazilian cultural context. Implications for future research and practice are also discussed.
Judgment of infant cry: The roles of acoustic characteristics and sociodemographic characteristics
Authors: Esposito Gianluca , Nakazawa Jun , Venuti Paola , Bornstein Marc H.
Published: October 2014

Adult judgments of infant cry are determined by both acoustic properties of the cry and listener sociodemographic characteristics. The main purpose of this research was to investigate how these two sources shape adult judgments of infant cry. We systematically manipulated both the acoustic properties of infant cries and contrasted listener sociodemographic characteristics. Then, we asked participants to listen to several acoustic manipulations of infant cries and to judge the level of distress the infant was expressing and the level of distress participants felt when listening. Finally, as a contrasting condition, participants estimated the age of the crying infant. Using tree‐based models, we found that judgments of the level of distress the infant was expressing as well as the level of distress listeners felt are mainly accounted for by select acoustic properties of infant cry (proportion of sound/pause, fundamental frequency, and number of utterances), whereas age estimates of a crying infant are determined mainly by listener sociodemographic characteristics (gender and parental status). Implications for understanding infant cry and its effects as well as early caregiver‐infant interactions are discussed.
Cellular composition of long‐standing gingivitis and periodontitis lesions
Authors: Thorbert‐Mros S. , Larsson L. , Berglundh T.
Published: October 2014

Background and Objective

Insufficient information on the cellular composition of long‐standing gingivitis lesions without signs of attachment loss makes an understanding of differences in cellular composition between “destructive” and “nondestructive” periodontal lesions difficult. The aim of the current study was to analyze differences in cell characteristics between lesions representing long‐standing gingivitis and severe periodontitis.

Material and Methods

Two groups of patients were recruited. One group consisted of 36 patients, 33–67 years of age, with severe generalized periodontitis (periodontitis group). The second group consisted of 28 patients, 41–70 years of age, with overt signs of gingival inflammation but no attachment loss (gingivitis group). From each patient a gingival biopsy was obtained from one selected diseased site and prepared for immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

Periodontitis lesions were twice as large and contained significantly larger proportions, numbers and densities of cells positive for CD138 (plasma cells) and CD68 (macrophages) than did gingivitis lesions. The proportion of B cells that expressed the additional CD5 marker (B‐1a cells) was significantly larger in periodontitis lesions than in gingivitis lesions. The densities of T cells and B cells did not differ between periodontitis lesions and gingivitis lesions. T cells were not the dominating cell type in gingivitis lesions, as B cells together with their subset plasma cells comprised a larger number and proportion than T cells.

Conclusion

Periodontitis lesions at teeth with advanced attachment and bone loss exhibit quantitative and qualitative differences in relation to gingivitis lesions at teeth with no attachment and bone loss. It is suggested that the large number and high density of plasma cells are the hallmarks of advanced periodontitis lesions and the most conspicuous difference in relation to long‐standing gingivitis lesions.
Associations of apolipoprotein E and low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 polymorphisms with dyslipidemia and generalized aggressive periodontitis in a Chinese population
Authors: Gao H. , Tian Y. , Meng H. , Hou J. , Xu L. , Zhang L. , Shi D. , Lu R. , Feng X. , Wang X. , Chen Z.
Published: October 2014

Background and Objective

Dyslipidemia is associated with aggressive periodontitis, a condition characterized by the rapid destruction of the periodontium. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) and low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein 5 (LRP5) are involved in immunomodulation and inflammatory activity. We evaluated the association of LRP5 and APOE polymorphisms with serum lipid concentrations and generalized aggressive periodontitis within a Chinese population.

Material and Methods

Mean serum lipid concentrations were compared across LRP5 and APOE polymorphisms, among cases (n = 185) and controls (n = 138). Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate the independent and combined associations of LRP5 and APOE polymorphisms with generalized aggressive periodontitis.

Results

Compared with controls, individuals with generalized aggressive periodontitis exhibited significantly lower serum total cholesterol (TC) and lower high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐c). Individuals with LRP5 polymorphisms (rs682429‐AA or rs312016‐GG) exhibited higher TC, higher HDL‐c and decreased odds for generalized aggressive periodontitis. Haplotype (A‐G), determined by rs682429 and rs312016, was also associated with decreased odds for generalized aggressive periodontitis. Furthermore, individuals with the combined polymorphisms (LRP5‐rs682429‐AA and APOE‐rs429358‐CC/CT) had higher levels of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, higher levels of TC and decreased odds for generalized aggressive periodontitis.

Conclusion

Independently or combined with APOE, LRP5 polymorphisms may lead to dyslipidemia and are associated with generalized aggressive periodontitis. Dyslipidemia may be a risk indicator for generalized aggressive periodontitis in the Chinese population. Furthermore, two LRP5 polymorphisms (rs682429 and rs312016) might be useful for identifying subjects at higher risk of generalized aggressive periodontitis.
Mediators of Sexual Functioning and Marital Quality in Chronically Depressed Adults with and Without a History of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Dunlop Boadie W. , Hill Eric , Johnson Benjamin N. , Klein Daniel N. , Gelenberg Alan J. , Rothbaum Barbara O. , Thase Michael E. , Kocsis James H.
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction is common among depressed adults. Childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and depressive symptomology are among the risk factors for sexual dysfunction, and these factors may interact to predict adult relationship functioning. Several models have been developed postulating interactions between these variables.

Aim

We tested models of the effects of CSA and elucidate the associations between CSA, sexual dysfunction, depression severity, anxiety, and relationship quality in chronically depressed adults.

Methods

Baseline data from 808 chronically depressed outpatients enrolled in the Research Evaluating the Value of Augmenting Medication with Psychotherapy study were evaluated using structural equation modeling.

Main Outcome Measures

The Inventory of Depressive Symptomology, self-report version (IDS-SR) assessed depression severity, and the Mood and Anxiety Symptom Questionnaire Anxious Arousal subscale assessed anxiety. Sexual function was assessed with the Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), and the Quality of Marriage Index (QMI) assessed relationship quality for patients in stable relationships.

Results

CSA scores predicted depression severity on the IDS-SR, as well as lower relationship quality and sexual satisfaction. ASEX scores were significantly associated with depression severity but were not correlated with the QMI. Two models were evaluated to elucidate these associations, revealing that (i) depression severity and anxious arousal mediated the relationship between CSA and adult sexual function, (ii) anxious arousal and sexual functioning mediated the association between CSA and depression symptoms, and (iii) when these models were combined, anxious arousal emerged as the most important mediator of CSA on depression which, in turn, mediated associations with adult sexual satisfaction and relationship quality.

Conclusions

Although CSA predicts lower relationship and sexual satisfaction among depressed adults, the long-term effects of CSA appear to be mediated by depressive and anxious symptoms. It is important to address depression and anxiety symptoms when treating patients with CSA who present with sexual dysfunction or marital concerns.
Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1 Activation, Storage, and Signaling Pathways in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis in Dogs
Authors: Krafft E. , Lybaert P. , Roels E. , Laurila H.P. , Rajamäki M.M. , Farnir F. , Myllärniemi M. , Day M.J. , Mc Entee K. , Clercx C.
Published: October 2014

Background

The pathogenesis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) in dogs is poorly understood. In human, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) is considered central in the pathogenesis.

Objectives

To investigate TGF‐β1 pathway in IPF.

Animals

Lung tissues from 12 affected and 11 control dogs. Serum from 16 affected West Highland white Terriers (WHWTs) and healthy dogs from predisposed (13 WHWTs, 12 Scottish Terriers and 13 Bichons Frise) and nonpredisposed breeds (10 Whippets, 10 Belgian shepherds, 8 Labradors).

Methods

In this prospective study, immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate expression and localization of TGF‐β1 protein and proteins involved in TGF‐β1 signaling (TGF‐β receptor type I and phospho‐Smad2/3). Pulmonary expression of TGF‐β1 and molecules involved in its storage (latent TGF‐β binding proteins [LTBP] 1, 2, and 4), activation (ανβ6 and ανβ8 integrins, thrombospondin‐1) and signal inhibition (Smad 7) was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR. Circulating TGF‐β1 concentration was measured by ELISA.

Results

In IPF, high level of TGF‐β1 protein was found in areas of fibrosis, epithelial cells had strong expression of TGF‐β receptor type 1 and phospho‐Smad2/3, gene expression was decreased for LTBP 4 (P = .009) and β8 integrin (P < .001) and increased for thrombospondin‐1 (P = .016); no difference was seen for Smad7, LTBP1 and 2. Serum TGF‐β1 concentration was higher in predisposed compared with nonpredisposed breeds (P < .0001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This study identified an enhanced TGF‐β1 signaling activity in IPF. TGF‐β1 storage and activation proteins with altered expression represent potential therapeutic targets. Higher circulating TGF‐β1 concentration in predisposed breeds might partly explain their susceptibility for IPF.
Optimal Capital Taxation, Labour Unions, and the Hold‐Up Problem
Authors: Palokangas Tapio
Published: October 2014

This document examines optimal capital taxation with wage‐setting labour unions when the government taxes consumption, labour, and capital. The results are as follows. If unions can commit themselves to particular wages for a long period, then there is no hold‐up problem. Otherwise, the hold‐up problem creates a positive link from capital accumulation to the wage. The optimal labour subsidy is positive and greater in the presence than in the absence of the hold‐up problem. The optimal capital subsidy is zero in the absence, but positive in the presence of the hold‐up problem.
Taking the Leap: Voting, Rhetoric, and the Determinants of Electoral Reform
Authors: Moser Scott , Reeves Andrew
Published: October 2014

The Second Reform Act ushered in the age of democratic politics in the United Kingdom by expanding the voting franchise and remedying legislative malapportionment. Analyzing parliamentary debates and divisions, we investigate why reform successfully passed the House of Commons in 1867. We consider why reform passed under a minority Conservative government yet failed under a majority Liberal government despite no election or change in membership. Though partisanship is most influential for parliamentary voting, it is an incomplete explanation given the absence of modern party institutions. Rather, we argue that the narrowed scope of debate under the Conservatives was crucial in passing reform.
Insurance Accounts: The Cultural Logics of Health Care Financing
Authors: Mulligan Jessica
Published: October 2014

The financial exuberance that eventually culminated in the recent world economic crisis also ushered in dramatic shifts in how health care is financed, administered, and imagined. Drawing on research conducted in the mid‐2000s at a health insurance company in Puerto Rico, this article shows how health care has been financialized in many ways that include: (1) privatizing public services; (2) engineering new insurance products like high deductible plans and health savings accounts; (3) applying financial techniques to premium payments to yield maximum profitability; (4) a managerial focus on shareholder value; and (5) prioritizing mergers and financial speculation. The article argues that financial techniques obfuscate how much health care costs, foster widespread gaming of reimbursement systems that drives up prices, and “unpool” risk by devolving financial and moral responsibility for health care onto individual consumers.[insurance, health reform, managed care, financialization, Medicare]
False killer whales and fisheries interactions in Hawaiian waters: Evidence for sex bias and variation among populations and social groups
Authors: Baird Robin W. , Mahaffy Sabre D. , Gorgone Antoinette M. , Cullins Tori , McSweeney Dan J. , Oleson Erin M. , Bradford Amanda L. , Barlow Jay , Webster Daniel L.
Published: October 2014

We assessed scarring patterns as evidence of fisheries interactions for three populations of false killer whales in Hawai‘i. Bycatch of the pelagic population in the tuna longline fishery exceeds their Potential Biological Removal level. Scarring was assessed by seven evaluators as consistent, possibly consistent, or not consistent with fisheries interactions, and average scores computed. Scores were highest for scarred main Hawaiian Island (MHI) false killer whales, followed by pelagic and Northwestern Hawaiian Island (NWHI) individuals. Considering only whales for which the majority of evaluators scored scarring as consistent revealed significant differences among populations in the percentage of individuals scarred; MHI: 7.5%, pelagic: 0%, NWHI: 0%. Assessment by social cluster for the MHI population showed that 4.2% of Cluster 1, 7.1% of Cluster 2, and 12.8% of Cluster 3 individuals had such scarring, although differences between clusters were not statistically significant. There was a significant sex bias; all sexed individuals (n = 7) with injuries consistent with fisheries interactions were female. The higher proportion of MHI individuals with fisheries‐related scarring suggests that fisheries interactions are occurring at a higher rate in this population. The bias towards females suggests that fisheries‐related mortality has a disproportionate impact on population dynamics.
Plant biotechnology for lignocellulosic biofuel production
Authors: Li Quanzi , Song Jian , Peng Shaobing , Wang Jack P. , Qu Guan‐Zheng , Sederoff Ronald R. , Chiang Vincent L.
Published: October 2014

Lignocelluloses from plant cell walls are attractive resources for sustainable biofuel production. However, conversion of lignocellulose to biofuel is more expensive than other current technologies, due to the costs of chemical pretreatment and enzyme hydrolysis for cell wall deconstruction. Recalcitrance of cell walls to deconstruction has been reduced in many plant species by modifying plant cell walls through biotechnology. These results have been achieved by reducing lignin content and altering its composition and structure. Reduction of recalcitrance has also been achieved by manipulating hemicellulose biosynthesis and by overexpression of bacterial enzymes in plants to disrupt linkages in the lignin–carbohydrate complexes. These modified plants often have improved saccharification yield and higher ethanol production. Cell wall‐degrading (CWD) enzymes from bacteria and fungi have been expressed at high levels in plants to increase the efficiency of saccharification compared with exogenous addition of cellulolytic enzymes. In planta expression of heat‐stable CWD enzymes from bacterial thermophiles has made autohydrolysis possible. Transgenic plants can be engineered to reduce recalcitrance without any yield penalty, indicating that successful cell wall modification can be achieved without impacting cell wall integrity or plant development. A more complete understanding of cell wall formation and structure should greatly improve lignocellulosic feedstocks and reduce the cost of biofuel production.
Synchrony Preference: Why Some People Go With the Flow and Some Don't
Authors: Leroy Sophie , Shipp Abbie J. , Blount Sally , Licht John‐Gabriel
Published: October 2014

As work in organizations becomes more fluid and fast paced the effective execution of tasks often requires people to be temporally adaptable in working with others. This paper brings to light the importance of understanding how people relate to time in the context of social interactions. By integrating the research on time and social motives, we develop a relational perspective about time. We introduce the construct of synchrony preference, an individual difference that describes a willingness to adapt one's pace and rhythm within social interactions for the purpose of creating synchrony with others. We develop a measure of synchrony preference that we validate using multiple methods across 4 studies and 7 samples, which include over 1,400 individuals. In particular, we establish a nomological network and show that synchrony preference predicts flexible pacing behaviors, interpersonal facilitation, contribution to team synchrony, contribution to team performance, and job dedication. Our results reveal that both scholars and practitioners can benefit from considering people's preference for synchrony when working with others.
Role of blood ribosomal protein S19 in coagulum resorption: A study using Gln137Glu‐ribosomal protein S19 gene knock‐in mouse
Authors: Chen Jun , Fujino Rika , Zhao Rui , Semba Umeko , Araki Kimi , Yamamoto Tetsuro
Published: October 2014

Sera of human, guinea pig or mouse contain a strong monocyte chemoattractant capacity that is attributed to the ribosomal protein S19 (RP S19) oligomers generated during blood coagulation. In contrast, sera prepared from Gln137Glu‐RP S19 gene knock‐in mice contained negligible chemoattractant capacity. When coagula that had been pre‐formed from the blood of both the wild type and knock‐in mice were intraperitoneally inserted into host mice, after 3 days of recovery, the knock‐in mouse coagula remained larger than the wild type mouse coagula. The wild type mouse coagula were covered by multiple macrophage layers at the surface and were infiltrated inside by macrophages. Knock‐in mouse coagula exhibited less macrophage involvement. When coagula of knock‐in mice and coagula of knock‐in mice containing C5a/RP S19, an artificial substitute of the RP S19 oligomers, were intraperitoneally inserted as pairs, the C5a/RP S19 containing coagulum was more rapidly absorbed, concomitant with increased macrophage involvement. Finally, when the knock‐in mouse and wild type mouse coagula pairs were inserted into mice in which macrophages had been depleted using clodronate liposome, the size difference of recovered coagula was reversed. These results indicate the importance of the RP S19 oligomer‐induced macrophage recruitment in coagulum resorption.
The flowers of Italian literature: language, imitation and gender debates in Paolo Giovio's Dialogus de viris et foeminis aetate nostra florentibus
Authors: Goethals Jessica
Published: October 2014

Written in the shadow of the devastating Sack of Rome (1527), Paolo Giovio's dialogue on the Notable Men and Women of our Time seeks to measure whether Italy's military valour, literary prowess, and female excellence have declined over the course of the Italian Wars. In this relatively unexamined work composed at the behest of his patron and protector, Vittoria Colonna, Giovio broadly surveys his male and female contemporaries in order to assess whether his age suffers from an isolated moment of catastrophe or has instead begun to grow martially, culturally, and socially barren. This article examines Giovio's evaluation of Italy's literary landscape and contradictory responses to contemporary debates over the questione della lingua, Ciceronian‐Eclectic imitation, and female authorship and readership. It demonstrates that the dialogue articulates a pro‐Latin position that reframes the polemics over imitation in terms of vernacular's perceived problematic relationship to exemplars and undiscerning, primarily female, audiences while at the same time heralding a new age of women's cultural involvement. It argues that Giovio attempts to resolve this knot by endowing Colonna herself with the positive qualities he associates with strong Latin writing, her own vernacular activity notwithstanding.
Risk factors of workplace bullying for men and women: The role of the psychosocial and physical work environment
Authors: Salin Denise
Published: October 2014

Workplace bullying has been shown to be a severe social stressor at work, resulting in high costs both for the individuals and organizations concerned. The aim of this study is to analyze risk factors in a large, nationally representative sample of Finnish employees (n = 4,392). The study makes three important contributions to the existing literature on workplace bullying: first, it demonstrates the role of the physical work environment alongside the psychosocial work environment – employees with a poor physical work environment are more likely than others to report having been subjected to or having observed bullying. Second, contrary to common assumptions, the results suggest that performance‐based pay is associated with a lower, rather than higher risk of bullying. Third, the findings suggest that there are gender differences in risk factors, thereby constituting a call for more studies on the role of gender when identifying risk factors. Increased knowledge of risk factors is important as it enables us to take more effective measures to decrease the risk of workplace bullying.
Effect of frequency on entrance and propagation pattern of high‐frequency (radiofrequency) electrical currents in biologic tissues
Authors: Taheri A. , Mansoori P. , Huang K. E. , Feldman S. R.
Published: October 2014

Background

Radiofrequency electrical currents have a tendency to move toward the center of the bulk of biologic tissues.

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of the frequency of currents on their entrance and propagation pattern in biologic tissues.

Materials and Methods

Three electrosurgical generators with 0.4, 1.5, and 3 MHz frequency outputs were studied. Current was applied using a metallic needle introduced into a piece of cow liver, with different amounts of energy delivered at multiple points. Cross‐sections of the liver were then studied for tissue effect. The diameters of the coagulated areas at the deepest and most superficial parts were measured. The tendency of the currents for penetration in the deeper layers of tissue rather than in the superficial layers was assessed using the superficial diameter/deep diameter ratio.

Results

Diameter of coagulated area was larger around deeper parts than around superficial parts of the electrode. No correlation between frequency of current and the superficial/deep diameter ratio of the coagulation zone was found.

Conclusion

Radiofrequency currents have a tendency to move toward the center of the tissue. Frequency of current over the range of 0.4–3 MHz did not show any effect on this tendency.
Identification and characterization of a novel HLA‐B hybrid allele, B*08:132 with Next Generation Sequencing
Authors: Papazoglou A. , Gasiewski A. , Huynh A. , Duke J. , Ferriola D. , Rogers M. , Lind C. , Monos D. S.
Published: October 2014

The new allele is a hybrid between B*08:01:01 and B*42:01:01.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) and albendazole against anisakiasis in an animal model
Authors: Romero Ma Carmen , Navarro Ma Concepción , Martín‐Sánchez Joaquina , Valero Adela
Published: October 2014

Objectives

Therapy against anisakiasis requires invasive techniques to extract L3, and an effective drug against this nematode is needed. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of peppermint essential oil (EO) and its main components against the parasite in comparison to albendazole, a drug currently prescribed to treat anisakiasis.

Methods

We conducted in vitro experiments and studied an experimental model simulating the human infection in Wistar rats. We used polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism to identify A. simplex s.s. and A. pegreffii and determine any differences in their pathogenicity and susceptibility to the treatments.

Results

The in vitro and in vivo experiments both showed that the larvicidal activity of peppermint EO, menthol, menthone and menthyl acetate is higher than that of albendazole. Large stomach lesions were observed in 46.7% of the albendazole‐treated rats, whereas no gastrointestinal lesions were detected in those treated with peppermint EO, menthol, menthyl acetate or menthone.

Conclusions

In this animal model, treatment with peppermint EO or its main components was more effective than was treatment with albendazole. Lesions were more frequently produced by A. simplex s.s. larvae than by A. pegreffii larvae.
Integration of diagnosis and treatment of sleeping sickness in primary healthcare facilities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Mitashi P. , Hasker E. , Mbo F. , Van Geertruyden J.P. , Kaswa M. , Lumbala C. , Boelaert M. , Lutumba P.
Published: October 2014

Background

Control of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has always been a vertical programme, although attempts at integration in general health services were made in recent years. Now that HAT prevalence is declining, the integration question becomes even more crucial. We studied the level of attainment of integration of HAT case detection and management in primary care centres in two high‐prevalence districts in the province of Bandundu, DRC.

Methods

We visited all 43 first‐line health centres of Mushie and Kwamouth districts, conducted structured interviews and inspected facilities using a standardised checklist. We focused on: availability of well trained staff – besides HAT, we also tested for knowledge on tuberculosis; availability of equipment, consumables and supplies; and utilisation of the services.

Results

All health centres were operating but most were poorly equipped, and attendance rates were very low. We observed a median of 14 outpatient consultations per facility (IQR 8–21) in the week prior to our visit, that is two patients per day. The staff had good knowledge on presenting symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of both HAT and tuberculosis. Nine centres were accredited by the national programme as HAT diagnosis and treatment centres, but the most sensitive diagnostic confirmation test, the mini‐anion exchange centrifugation technique (mAECT), was not present in any. Although all nine were performing the CATT screening test, only two had the required cold chain in working order.

Conclusion

In these high‐prevalence districts in DRC, staff is well‐acquainted with HAT but lack the tools required for an adequate diagnostic procedure. Attendance rates of these primary care centres are extremely low, making timely recognition of a resurgence of HAT unlikely in the current state of affairs.
Clinical aspects of paediatric visceral leishmaniasis in North‐west Ethiopia
Authors: Diro Ermias , Lynen Lutgarde , Gebregziabiher Berhane , Assefa Abraham , Lakew Wubishet , Belew Zewdu , Hailu Asrat , Boelaert Marleen , van Griensven Johan
Published: October 2014

Objective

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in north‐west Ethiopia is causing an overwhelming case load among adult migrant workers that masked the disease burden in children. This study describes the clinical profile and explores comorbidities in paediatric VL patients.

Methods

A prospective study at two hospitals in this region (Gondar and Humera) was conducted in a year period, 2011–2012. The clinical manifestations and comorbidities such as malnutrition, intestinal parasitosis and vitamin D deficiency and HIV infection were assessed, and treatment outcomes noted.

Results

A total of 122 children with VL were detected during the study period with median age of 8.5 years (IQR 5–12 years); 23% were under 5 years. Eighty‐five (69.7%) cases were male. The clinical manifestations were similar to the adult patients. High rates of malnutrition, intestinal parasitosis (47.5%) and hypovitaminosis D (56.4%) were detected. The proportion of stunting and wasting was 63% and 22.2% in children aged under five years, and 50.5% and 75.9% in 5‐year and older children, respectively, using WHO standard growth curves. Only one child had HIV infection. In 95% of the cases, sodium stibogluconate (20 mg/kg/day for 30 days) was used for treatment. The treatment success rate at end of therapy was 98.3%, but the definitive outcome at 6 months could not be determined because of a high loss to follow‐up (80.2%).

Conclusion

While HIV co‐infection was rare, malnutrition, intestinal parasitosis and vitamin D deficiency were frequent indicating the need for further research on their role in the pathophysiology. Meanwhile, systematic assessment and management of malnutrition and intestinal parasitosis in VL programmes is recommended.
Early career retention of Malawian medical graduates: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mandeville Kate L. , Ulaya Godwin , Lagarde Mylene , Gwesele Lyson , Dzowela Titha , Hanson Kara , Muula Adamson S.
Published: October 2014

Objective

There have been longstanding concerns over Malawian doctors migrating to high‐income countries. Early career is a particularly vulnerable period. After significant policy changes, we examined the retention of recent medical graduates within Malawi and the public sector.

Methods

We obtained data on graduates between 2006 and 2012 from the University of Malawi College of Medicine and Malawi Ministry of Health. We utilised the alumni network to triangulate official data and contacted graduates directly for missing or uncertain data. Odds ratios and chi‐squared tests were employed to investigate relationships by graduation year and gender.

Results

We traced 256 graduates, with complete information for more than 90%. Nearly 80% of registered doctors were in Malawi (141/178, 79.2%), although the odds of emigration doubled with each year after graduation (odds ratio = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.54–2.56, P < 0.0001). Of the 37 graduates outside Malawi (14.5%), 23 (62.2%) were training in South Africa under a College of Medicine sandwich programme. More than 80% of graduates were working in the public sector (185/218, 82.6%), with the odds declining by 27% for each year after graduation (odds ratio = 0.73, 95% CI = 0.61–0.86, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

While most doctors remain in Malawi and the public sector during their early careers, the odds of leaving both increase with time. The majority of graduates outside Malawi are training in South Africa under visa restrictions, reflecting the positive impact of postgraduate training in Malawi. Concerns over attrition from the public sector are valid and require further exploratory work.
Preliminary survey of domestic animal visceral leishmaniasis and risk factors in north‐west Ethiopia
Authors: Kenubih Ambaye , Dagnachew Shimelis , Almaw Gizat , Abebe Tamerat , Takele Yegnasew , Hailu Asrat , Lemma Wessensegad
Published: October 2014

Objective

After the epidemics of L. donovani complex in 2004/05 in human patients, to investigate the presence of antibodies against L. donovani in domestic animals in north‐west Ethiopia.

Methods

Two hundred and three domestic animals were screened. Serum and biopsy samples were collected. A modified direct agglutination test (DAT) for canine reservoirs was used to screen serum samples at ≥ 1:320 cut‐off titre. Giemsa stain and culture on Novy macNeal Nicolae (NNN) media were used for biopsy samples. Pre‐tested questionnaires were used to elicit information on potential risk factors.

Results

Antibody against L. donovani in domestic animals was detected in 30.5% of animals. The highest seropositivity rates were 41.9% in cattle, 40% in dogs, 33.3% in donkeys, 10% in goats and 4.8% in sheep. No Leishmania parasite was isolated from spleen, liver, skin snip and exudates, bone marrow or lymph node of dogs. Dogs owned by households with history of kala‐azar treatment and humans sharing the house with cattle were more affected by visceral leishmaniasis (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study showed a high serological prevalence of leishmaniasis in domestic animals. Their role in the epidemiology of visceral leishmaniasis remains unclear.
A set of fluorescent protein‐based markers expressed from constitutive and arbuscular mycorrhiza‐inducible promoters to label organelles, membranes and cytoskeletal elements in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Ivanov Sergey , Harrison Maria J.
Published: October 2014

Medicago truncatula is widely used for analyses of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis and nodulation. To complement the genetic and genomic resources that exist for this species, we generated fluorescent protein fusions that label the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, trans‐Golgi network, plasma membrane, apoplast, late endosome/multivesicular bodies (MVB), transitory late endosome/ tonoplast, tonoplast, plastids, mitochondria, peroxisomes, autophagosomes, plasmodesmata, actin, microtubules, periarbuscular membrane (PAM) and periarbuscular apoplastic space (PAS) and expressed them from the constitutive AtUBQ10 promoter and the AM symbiosis‐specific MtBCP1 promoter. All marker constructs showed the expected expression patterns and sub‐cellular locations in M. truncatula root cells. As a demonstration of their utility, we used several markers to investigate AM symbiosis where root cells undergo major cellular alterations to accommodate their fungal endosymbiont. We demonstrate that changes in the position and size of the nuclei occur prior to hyphal entry into the cortical cells and do not require DELLA signaling. Changes in the cytoskeleton, tonoplast and plastids also occur in the colonized cells and in contrast to previous studies, we show that stromulated plastids are abundant in cells with developing and mature arbuscules, while lens‐shaped plastids occur in cells with degenerating arbuscules. Arbuscule development and secretion of the PAM creates a periarbuscular apoplastic compartment which has been assumed to be continuous with apoplast of the cell. However, fluorescent markers secreted to the periarbuscular apoplast challenge this assumption. This marker resource will facilitate cell biology studies of AM symbiosis, as well as other aspects of legume biology.
Relationship between cobalamin‐dependent metabolites and both serum albumin and alpha1‐proteinase inhibitor concentrations in hypocobalaminemic dogs of 7 different breeds
Authors: Grützner Niels , Suchodolski Jan S. , Steiner Jörg M.
Published: October 2014

Background

Increased serum concentrations of homocysteine (HCY) and methylmalonic acid (MMA), the 2 main cobalamin‐dependent metabolites, as well as decreased serum albumin and canine alpha1‐proteinase inhibitor (cα1‐PI) concentrations have previously been described in hypocobalaminemic dogs with gastrointestinal disease. However, no studies have been conducted to evaluate potential relationships between these serum biomarkers.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between HCY and MMA, 2 cobalamin‐dependent metabolites, and both serum albumin and cα1‐PI concentrations in hypocobalaminemic dogs.

Methods

Serum samples from 285 dogs including 7 different breeds (Beagle, Boxer, Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Chinese Shar‐Pei, and Yorkshire Terrier) with hypocobalaminemia were used. Serum HCY, MMA, albumin, and cα1‐PI concentrations were determined.

Results

There was a significant correlation between serum HCY and albumin concentrations, as well as serum HCY and cα1‐PI concentrations (ρ = 0.62 and ρ = 0.37, respectively; P < .0001). No correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations, or cα1‐PI concentrations (ρ = 0.01 and ρ = 0.08, respectively; P > .05). In addition, significant breed‐specific correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations in German Shepherds, and serum HCY and MMA concentrations in Chinese Shar‐Peis with hypocobalaminemia.

Conclusions

This study shows a correlation between serum albumin and cα1‐PI and HCY concentrations, but not with serum MMA concentration in dogs with hypocobalaminemia. In addition, significant breed‐specific correlations were observed between serum MMA and albumin concentrations in German Shepherds, as well as serum HCY and MMA concentrations in Chinese Shar‐Peis, emphasizing the unique metabolic interactions in those dog breeds affected by hypocobalaminemia.
Identifying Critical Functions for Use Across Engineering Design Domains
Authors: Lucero Briana , Viswanathan Vimal K. , Linsey Julie S. , Turner Cameron J.
Published: October 2014

This research defines the basis for a new quantitative approach for retrieving useful analogies for innovation based on the relevant performance characteristics of functions. The concept of critical functionality is the idea of identifying only a certain set of pertinent design functions observed in a single domain that significantly define the functionality of the product. A critical function (CF) is a function within a functional model whose performance directly relates to a key performance parameter (KPP) of the system as a whole. These CFs will enable multiple analogies to be presented to a designer by recognizing similar functionality across distant design domains and incorporating key performance criteria. The ultimate focus of this research project is to create a performance-metric-based analogy library, called the design analogy performance parameter system (DAPPS). By focusing on a select set of “critical” functions, more design domains can be included in the database facilitating analogy retrieval founded on the qualification of KPPs.
Pressure-Dependent, Infrared-Emitting Phenomenon in Hypervelocity Impact
Authors: Mihaly Jonathan M. , Tandy Jonathan D. , Rosakis A. J. , Adams M. A. , Pullin D.
Published: October 2014

A series of hypervelocity impact experiments were conducted with variable target chamber atmospheric pressure ranging from 0.9 to 21.5 Torr. Using a two-stage light-gas gun, 5.7 mg nylon 6/6 right-cylinders were accelerated to speeds ranging between 6.0 and 6.3 km/s to impact 1.5 mm thick 6061-T6 aluminum plates. Full-field images of near-IR emission (0.9 to 1.7 μm) were measured using a high-speed spectrograph system with image exposure times of 1 μs. The radial expansion of an IR-emitting impact-generated phenomenon was observed to be dependent upon the ambient target chamber atmospheric pressures. Higher chamber pressures demonstrated lower radial expansions of the subsequently measured IR-emitting region uprange of the target. Dimensional analysis, originally presented by Taylor to describe the expansion of a hemispherical blast wave, is applied to describe the observed pressure-dependence of the IR-emitting cloud expansion. Experimental results are used to empirically determine two dimensionless constants for the analysis. The maximum radial expansion of the observed IR-emitting cloud is described by the Taylor blast-wave theory, with experimental results demonstrating the characteristic nonlinear dependence on atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, the edges of the measured IR-emitting clouds are observed to expand at extreme speeds ranging from approximately 13 to 39 km/s. In each experiment, impact ejecta and debris are simultaneously observed in the visible range using an ultrahigh-speed laser shadowgraph system. For the considered experiments, ejecta and debris speeds are measured between 0.6 and 5.1 km/s. Such a disparity in observed phenomena velocities suggests the IR-emitting cloud is a distinctly different phenomenon to both the uprange ejecta and downrange debris generated during a hypervelocity impact.
Cross-Sectional Associations Between Sitting Time and Several Aspects of Mental Health in Belgian Adults
Authors: Asztalos Melinda , Cardon Greet , De Bourdeaudhuij Ilse , De Cocker Katrien
Published: October 2014

Background:

Sedentary behavior (including sitting) is negatively associated with physical health, independent from physical activity (PA). Knowledge on the associations with mental health is less elaborated. Therefore this study aims to investigate the relationship between sitting and 5 indices of mental health in adults (psychological distress, depression, anxiety, somatization, and sleeping problems), and between sitting interactions (sitting×gender, sitting×age, sitting×education, and sitting×PA) and these mental health indices.

Methods:

A cohort of Belgian adults (25–64 years; n = 4344) provided self-reported data on sitting and PA and on 5 mental health indices. Cross-sectional associations were examined using multiple linear regression analyses.

Results:

Analyses adjusted for gender, age, education, and PA showed significant positive associations between sitting and the 5 mental health indices (P < .05). All associations were true for both men and women, and for low and high educated individuals, while some were only found in older individuals (somatization, P < .001) and those being insufficiently active (psychological distress, P = .007; depression, P = .002; and anxiety, P = .014).

Conclusions:

More sitting seems to be associated with poorer mental health, independently of gender, age, education, and PA. Moderation analyses showed that these associations may differ according to age and PA levels.
Conflation of gingival overgrowth and schwannoma
Authors: Purwar Parth , Dixit Jaya , Bhartiya Kishlay , Sareen Sagar
Published: October 2014

The authors describe a seminal case report of a 10-year-old boy with enlarged gingivae in relation to his maxillary anterior teeth. The lesion, provisionally diagnosed as idiopathic gingival enlargement, was completely excised and divided into two sections. The histological and immunohistochemical findings in one of the sections showed it to be characteristic of schwannoma while the other section showed indications of idiopathic gingival enlargement. The patient has been followed up carefully and no recurrence has been noted.
A rare case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Lin Diwei , Tan Amanda Jia Hui , De Sousa Agnelo Francis , Singh-Rai Rajinder
Published: October 2014

We present a very rare case of de novo large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the prostate in an 84-year-old man on a background of high grade, superficially invasive transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. Pure LCNEC of the prostate is extremely rare. Most LCNEC of the prostate are thought to originate by clonal progression under the selection pressure of therapy and refractory to long-term hormonal treatment for adenocarcinoma of the prostate. De novo LCNEC is only described in case reports and is thought to develop via direct malignant transformation. Limited data in the English literature makes it difficult to accurately predict the prognosis of LCNEC of the prostate. However, current evidence suggesting that increasing neuroendocrine differentiation in prostate adenocarcinoma is associated with a higher stage, high-grade disease and a worse prognosis.
Multidrug-resistantEscherichia colisoft tissue infection investigated with bacterial whole genome sequencing
Authors: Buchanan Ruaridh , Stoesser Nicole , Crook Derrick , Bowler Ian C J W
Published: October 2014

A 45-year-old man with dilated cardiomyopathy presented with acute leg pain and erythema suggestive of necrotising fasciitis. Initial surgical exploration revealed no necrosis and treatment for a soft tissue infection was started. Blood and tissue cultures unexpectedly grew a Gram-negative bacillus, subsequently identified by an automated broth microdilution phenotyping system as an extended-spectrum β-lactamase producingEscherichia coli. The patient was treated with a 3-week course of antibiotics (ertapenem followed by ciprofloxacin) and debridement for small areas of necrosis, followed by skin grafting. The presence ofE. colitriggered investigation of both host and pathogen. The patient was found to have previously undiagnosed liver disease, a risk factor forE. colisoft tissue infection. Whole genome sequencing of isolates from all specimens confirmed they were clonal, of sequence type ST131 and associated with a likely plasmid-associated AmpC (CMY-2), several other resistance genes and a number of virulence factors.
Substituent effect on N–H bond dissociation enthalpies of carbamates: a theoretical study
Authors: Kaur Rupinder preet , Kaur Damanjit , Sharma Ritika
Published: October 2014

The present investigation deals with the study of the N–H bond dissociation enthalpies (BDEs) of the Y-substituted (NH2-C(=X)Y-R) and N-substituted ((R)(H)NC(=X)YH) carbamates (X, Y = O, S, Se; R = H, CH3, F, Cl, NH2), which have been evaluated using ab initio and density functional methods. The variations in N−H BDEs of these Y-substituted and N-substituted carbamates as the effect of substituent have been understood in terms of molecule stabilization energy (ME) and radical stabilization energy (RE), which have been calculated using the isodesmic reactions. The natural bond orbital analysis indicated that the electrodelocalization of the lone pairs of heteroatoms in the molecules and radicals affect the ME and RE values depending upon the type and site of substitution (whether N- or Y-). The variations in N−H BDEs depend upon the combined effect of molecule stabilization and radical stabilization by the various substituents.
Controllability of fractional-order directed complex networks
Authors: Zhang Hao , Chen Di-Yi , Xu Bei-Bei , Zhang Run-Fan
Published: October 2014

This paper is a step forward to generalize the fundamentals of the conventional controllability in fractional-order complex networks. First, we discuss the existence of controllability theory of fractional-order complex networks. Furthermore, we propose stringent mathematical expression and controllable proof of fractional complex networks. Finally, three typical examples from the simplest network, the chain fractional-order network, to the Small-World network are presented to validate the correctness of the above theorem.