bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Schistosoma mansoni and HIV acquisition in fishing communities of Lake Victoria, Uganda: a nested case–control study
Authors: Ssetaala Ali , Nakiyingi‐Miiro Jessica , Asiki Gershim , Kyakuwa Nassim , Mpendo Juliet , Van Dam Govert J. , Corstjens Paul L. , Pala Pietro , Nielsen Leslie , Bont Jan De , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Kiwanuka Noah , Kaleebu Pontiano , Kamali Anatoli , Elliott Alison M.
Published: May 2015

Objective

It has been suggested that Schistosoma mansoni, which is endemic in African fishing communities, might increase susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) acquisition. If confirmed, this would be of great public health importance in these high HIV‐risk communities. This study was undertaken to determine whether S. mansoni infection is a risk factor for HIV infection among the fishing communities of Lake Victoria, Uganda. We conducted a matched case–control study, nested within a prospective HIV incidence cohort, including 50 HIV seroconverters (cases) and 150 controls during 2009‐2011.

Methods

S. mansoni infection prior to HIV seroconversion was determined by measuring serum circulating anodic antigen (CAA) in stored serum. HIV testing was carried out using the Determine rapid test and infection confirmed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results

About 49% of cases and 52% of controls had S. mansoni infection prior to HIV seroconversion (or at the time of a similar study visit, for controls): odds ratio, adjusting for ethnicity, religion, marital status, education, occupation, frequency of alcohol consumption in previous 3 months, number of sexual partners while drunk, duration of stay in the community, and history of schistosomiasis treatment in the past 2 years was 1.23 (95% CI 0.3–5.7) P = 0.79. S. mansoni infections were chronic (with little change in status between enrolment and HIV seroconversion), and there was no difference in median CAA concentration between cases and controls.

Conclusions

These results do not support the hypothesis that S. mansoni infection promotes HIV acquisition.
Detection and molecular characterisation of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Entamoeba spp. among patients with gastrointestinal symptoms in Gambo Hospital, Oromia Region, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Flecha María J. , Benavides Cynthia M. , Tissiano Gabriel , Tesfamariam Abraham , Cuadros Juan , de Lucio Aida , Bailo Begoña , Cano Lourdes , Fuentes Isabel , Carmena David
Published: May 2015

Objectives

To assess the prevalence and genetic diversity of the enteric protozoa species G. duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Entamoeba histolytica in individuals with gastrointestinal symptoms compatible with infections by these pathogens seeking medical attention in a rural area in southern Ethiopia.

Methods

A total of 92 stool samples were initially screened by direct microscopy and immunochromatography and further confirmed by molecular methods. G. duodenalis‐positive samples were molecularly characterised by multilocus genotyping of the glutamate dehydrogenase and β‐giardin genes of the parasite. PCR and DNA sequence analysis of the gene encoding the 60‐kDa glycoprotein was used for the subtyping of Cryptosporidium isolates. Detection and differential diagnosis of E. histolytica/dispar were conducted by real‐time PCR.

Results

PCR‐based prevalences were 10.9% for G. duodenalis, 1.1% for Cryptosporidium spp. and 3.3% for Entamoeba spp. Seven (four novel and three known) subtypes of G. duodenalis assemblage B were identified at the GDH locus and 5 (one novel and four known) at the BG locus. A novel variant of C. hominis subtype IbA9G3 was also identified. Two Entamoeba isolates were assigned to E. dispar and an additional one to E. histolytica.

Conclusion

Although preliminary, our results strongly suggest that giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis and amoebiasis represent a significant burden in Ethiopian rural population.
The first national tuberculosis prevalence survey of Lao PDR (2010–2011)
Authors: Law Irwin , Sylavanh Phannasinh , Bounmala Soth , Nzabintwali Fulgence , Paboriboune Phimpha , Iem Vibol , Somphavong Silaphet , Kim Sang Jae , Sismanidis Charalambos , Onozaki Ikushi , Sebert Jacques
Published: May 2015

Objective

The objective of the study was to measure the prevalence of bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) in Lao PDR in 2010–2011.

Method

A nationwide, multistage cluster‐sampled cross‐sectional survey was undertaken in 2010–2011. All consenting participants ≥15 years were screened for pulmonary TB with chest X‐ray and symptom questionnaire. Two sputum specimens for bacteriological examination by microscopy and culture were collected from those who screened positive. Prevalence was estimated using multiple imputation and inverse probability weighting methods.

Results

Of 39 212 eligible participants from 50 clusters, 6290 participants provided at least one sputum sample for smear and culture. There were 237 bacteriologically confirmed pulmonary TB cases, 107 of which were smear‐positive. Chest X‐ray screening alone identified 230 (97.0%) cases compared with 118 (49.8%) by symptom screening alone. The estimated prevalence of smear‐positive and bacteriologically confirmed TB in those ≥15 years was 278 per 100 000 (95%C.I. 199–356) and 595 per 100 000 (95%C.I. 457–733), respectively. Prevalence significantly increased with age and was higher in men than women.

Conclusions

The prevalence of TB in Lao PDR is almost twice as high than previous estimates, with the greatest burden in the older population. Case detection efforts remain the primary goal of the national TB programme with case notifications being very low in comparison with the estimated number of prevalent cases. The survey observed major limitations with the diagnostic strategy of passive (symptom based) case finding that uses only direct smear microscopy for confirmation.
A Note on Proportionate Mixing Assumption Revisited for a Model with Vertical Transmission
Authors: Tchaptchie Yannick Kouakep , Danga Duplex Elvis Houpa , Alex Nguelbe , Albert Guidzavai K.
Published: May 2015

We conditionally extend formulas of(Dietz and Schenzle, J. Math. Biol. 22: 117-120,1995) for the вЂќtransmission potentialвЂќ of an immunizing infection with pre-infection possible before birth and vertical transmission admitted. We look for minimum proportion to be covered to reduce basic reproduction rate below 1 by acting through vaccination. We present also a new criterion allowing the selection of an immunizing vaccination strategy by bringing the reproduction number below 1. We find that reduce vertical transmission, adds chances to eradicate disease. Moreover reduce age of vaccination reduces the minimum vaccination coverage inducing global immunization against disease by bringing down the basic reproduction number.
Structure-Activity Relationship Study of Novel Peptoids That Mimic the Structure of Antimicrobial Peptides
Authors: Mojsoska Biljana , Zuckermann Ronald N. , Jenssen Håvard
Published: May 2015

The constant emergence of new bacterial strains that resist the effectiveness of marketed antimicrobials has led to an urgent demand for and intensive research on new classes of compounds to combat bacterial infections. Antimicrobial peptoids comprise one group of potential candidates for antimicrobial drug development. The present study highlights a library of 22 cationic amphipathic peptoids designed to target bacteria. All the peptoids share an overall net charge of +4 and are 8 to 9 residues long; however, the hydrophobicity and charge distribution along the abiotic backbone varied, thus allowing an examination of the structure-activity relationship within the library. In addition, the toxicity profiles of all peptoids were assessed in human red blood cells (hRBCs) and HeLa cells, revealing the low toxicity exerted by the majority of the peptoids. The structural optimization also identified two peptoid candidates, 3 and 4, with high selectivity ratios of 4 to 32 and 8 to 64, respectively, and a concentration-dependent bactericidal mode of action against Gram-negative
Escherichia coli
.
Role of cognition in generating and mitigating clinical errors
Authors: Patel Vimla L , Kannampallil Thomas G , Shortliffe Edward H
Published: May 2015

Given the complexities of current clinical practice environments, strategies to reduce clinical error must appreciate that error detection and recovery are integral to the function of complex cognitive systems. In this review, while acknowledging that error elimination is an attractive notion, we use evidence to show that enhancing error detection and improving error recovery are also important goals. We further show how departures from clinical protocols or guidelines can yield innovative and appropriate solutions to unusual problems. This review addresses cognitive approaches to the study of human error and its recovery process, highlighting their implications in promoting patient safety and quality. In addition, we discuss methods for enhancing error recognition, and promoting suitable responses, through external cognitive support and virtual reality simulations for the training of clinicians.
Effects of α-thalassaemia mutations on the haematological parameters of β-thalassaemia carriers
Authors: Saleh-Gohari Nasrollah , Khademi Bami Maryam , Nikbakht Roya , Karimi-Maleh Hassan
Published: May 2015

Background

Thalassaemia is a haemoglobin disorder caused by a reduction in, or a complete absence of, the production of α- or β-globin genes. Detection of β-thalassaemia carriers is the first step in the prenatal diagnosis of the disease and is based primarily on the differences between levels of blood cell indices. Since co-inheritance of β- and α-thalassaemia mutations modulates the haematological parameters of heterozygote β-thalassaemia indices, understanding the influence of this interaction is helpful for identification of disease carriers.

Objective

To determine the effects of α-thalassaemia mutations on the haematological parameters of β-thalassaemia carriers.

Method

We used gap-PCR and amplification refractory mutation system techniques to find any α- and/or β-thalassaemia mutations in 270 subjects who were suspected to be thalassaemia carriers. The mean values of the haematological parameters in α, β-thalassaemia and β-thalassaemia carriers were compared.

Results

Significant differences in mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and HbA2 were found between the two groups. Patients who were α, β-thalassaemia carriers had higher mean values of MCV and MCH, whereas HbA2 levels were higher in simple β-thalassaemia. No marked differences were found in mean cell haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and Hb blood cell indices. The value of MCV, MCH and HbA2 were significantly different between α,β-thalassaemia and simple β-thalassaemia in men and women, but the mean values of Hb in the two groups differed markedly only in men.

Conclusion

We conclude that co-inheritance of α- and β-thalassaemia mutations may result in misdiagnosis of β-thalassaemia carriers. Therefore, in genetic counselling of patients with a near-normal range of blood cell indices the possibility that they may carry α, β-thalassaemia mutations must be considered.
Serum level of soluble interleukin-2 receptor correlates with CD25 expression in patients with T lymphoblastic lymphoma
Authors: Toji Tomohiro , Takata Katsuyoshi , Sato Yasuharu , Miyata-Takata Tomoko , Hayashi Eiko , Habara Toshiyuki , Maeda Yoshinobu , Tanimoto Mitsune , Yoshino Tadashi
Published: May 2015

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia/lymphoma (ALL/LBL) is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) affecting B-cells or T-cells, respectively. The serum level of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) is known to reflect the immune activity and tumour volume in aggressive NHL; however, the release of sIL-2R in LBL has not been extensively studied. Further, the relationship between sIL-2R release and the expression level of IL-2R α subunit (CD25) remains unknown. In the present study, we examined the serum level of sIL-2R in 23 patients with T lymphoblactic lymphoma (T-LBL) and compared these with the levels in 20 patient with T acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (T-ALL), 40 patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and 40 patients with peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL), not otherwise specified. The release of sIL-2R into the serum in patients with T-LBL was significantly lower than that for T-ALL, DLBCL and PTCL (p<0.001). Immunohistochemistry revealed that CD25 expression was correlated with the serum level of sIL-2R in T-LBL (p=0.0069), whereas no correlation was found to exist between serum sIL-2R levels and CD25 expression in patients with DLBCL (p=0.348) and PTCL (p=0.266). Furthermore, double immunohistochemical analysis revealed that CD25-positive cells were also found to be Foxp3-positive non-neoplastic T-cells. In conclusion, CD25-positive non-neoplastic T-cells in T-LBL are presumed to be the primary source of sIL-2R, and the low number of cells present results in a lower level of sIL-2R released into the serum compared with the other aggressive and highly aggressive lymphomas.
Tracking motor neuron loss in a set of six muscles in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using the Motor Unit Number Index (MUNIX): a 15-month longitudinal multicentre trial
Authors: Neuwirth Christoph , Barkhaus Paul E , Burkhardt Christian , Castro José , Czell David , de Carvalho Mamede , Nandedkar Sanjeev , Stålberg Erik , Weber Markus
Published: May 2015

Background

Motor Unit Number Index (MUNIX) is a novel neurophysiological measure that provides an index of the number of functional lower motor neurons in a given muscle. So far its performance across centres in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) has not been investigated.

Objective

To perform longitudinal MUNIX recordings in a set of muscles in a multicentre setting in order to evaluate its value as a marker of disease progression.

Methods

Three centres applied MUNIX in 51 ALS patients over 15 months. Six different muscles (abductor pollicis brevis, abductor digiti minimi, biceps brachii, tibialis anterior, extensor dig. brevis, abductor hallucis) were measured every 3 months on the less affected side. The decline between MUNIX and ALSFRS-R was compared.

Results

31 participants reached month 12. For all participants, ALSFRS-R declined at a rate of 2.3%/month. Using the total score of all muscles, MUNIX declined significantly faster by 3.2%/month (p≤0.02). MUNIX in individual muscles declined between 2.4% and 4.2%, which differed from ASLFRS-R decline starting from month 3 (p≤0.05 to 0.002). Subgroups with bulbar, lower and upper limb onset showed different decline rates of ALSFRS-R between 1.9% and 2.8%/month, while MUNIX total scores showed similar decline rates over all subgroups. Mean intraclass correlation coefficient for MUNIX intra-rater reliability was 0.89 and for inter-rater reliability 0.80.

Conclusion

MUNIX is a reliable electrophysiological biomarker to track lower motor neuron loss in ALS.
Arterial embolization with Onyx of head and neck paragangliomas
Authors: Michelozzi Caterina , Januel Anne Christine , Cuvinciuc Victor , Tall Philippe , Bonneville Fabrice , Fraysse Bernard , Deguine Olivier , Serrano Elie , Cognard Christophe
Published: May 2015

Object

To report the morbidity and long term results in the treatment of paragangliomas by transarterial embolization with ethylene vinyl alcohol (Onyx), either as preoperative or palliative treatment.

Methods

Between September 2005 and 2012, 18 jugulotympanic, 7 vagal, and 4 carotid body paragangliomas (CBPs) underwent Onyx embolization, accordingly to our head and neck multidisciplinary team's decision. CBPs were embolized preoperatively. Jugulotympanic and vagal paragangliomas underwent surgery when feasible, otherwise palliative embolization was carried out alone, or in combination with radiotherapy or tympanic surgery in the case of skull base or tympanic extension. Treatment results, and clinical and MRI follow-up data were recorded.

Results

In all cases, devascularization of at least 60% of the initial tumor blush was obtained; 6 patients underwent two embolizations. Post-embolization, 8 patients presented with cranial nerve palsy, with partial or complete regression at follow-up (mean 31 months, range 3–86 months), except for 2 vagal and 1 hypoglossal palsy. 10 patients were embolized preoperatively; 70% were cured after surgery and 30% showed residual tumor. 19 patients received palliative embolization, of whom 5 underwent radiotherapy and 3 received tympanic surgery post-embolization. Long term follow-up of palliative embolization resulted in tumor volume stability (75%) or extension in intracranial or tympanic compartments. Onyx embolization of CBPs resulted in more difficult surgical dissection in 2 of 4 cases.

Conclusions

Onyx embolization is a valuable alternative to surgery in the treatment of jugulotympanic and vagal paragangliomas; tympanic surgery or radiosurgery of the skull base should be considered in selected cases. Preoperative Onyx embolization of CBPs is not recommended.
Focal middle cerebral artery ischemia in rats via a transfemoral approach using a custom designed microwire
Authors: Divani Afshin A , Chow Ricky , Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Murphy Amanda J , Nordberg Jessica A , Tokarev Julian V , Hevesi Mario , Wang Xiao , Zhu Xiao-Hong , Acompanado Tommy , Edwards Peter A , Zhang Yi , Chen Wei
Published: May 2015

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop a reliable and repeatable method of inducing focal middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) in rats without ligation of the external carotid artery (ECA), while reducing the risk of subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Methods

We prototyped microwires with different diameters (0.0120 inch, 0.0115 inch, 0.0110 inch), materials, and construction methods (coil-on-core, extruded polymer jacket-on-core). Under fluoroscopic guidance and using femoral artery access, the microwires were navigated into the internal carotid artery of male Wistar rats (n=50, weight 376±64 g) to induce MCAo for 1 or 2 h. We performed neurological assessments at baseline, and at 3, 24, 72, and 168 h after MCAo. MRI measurements were performed on a 9.4 T scanner at 1 and 7 days post-injury.

Results

The 0.0115 inch microwire with polymer jacket-on-core provided the most successful outcome. At 1 and 7 days post-injury, we observed similar infarction volumes for 1 and 2 h MCAo in the MRI study. Infarcted lesion volumes in both MCAo groups were significantly reduced at 7 days compared with 1 day post-injury. The trend in longitudinal changes for the scores of different neurological assessments was confirmed to be significant after the injury, but both groups showed a similar trend of neurological deficits over the course of the study.

Conclusions

We have developed a reliable and repeatable MCAo method in rats, allowing for precise occlusion of the MCA under direct fluoroscopic visualization without alteration of the cerebral hemodynamics associated with ECA ligation. The custom designed microwire can also be sized for targeted focal ischemia in larger animals.
Mechanical thrombectomy using a combined CT/C-arm X-ray system
Authors: Pfaff Johannes , Herweh Christian , Pham Mirko , Schönenberger Silvia , Bösel Julian , Ringleb Peter A , Heiland Sabine , Bendszus Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus
Published: May 2015

Background

Mechanical thrombectomy (MT) using stent-retrievers has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment in acute ischemic stroke (AIS), particularly in large vessel occlusion. Other than patient characteristics, time to recanalization is the most important factor linked to outcome. MT is usually performed in a dedicated angiography suite using a floor- and/or ceiling-mounted biplane angiographic system. Here we report our first experience of MT with a new combined CT and mobile C-arm X-ray device setup.

Methods

Patients with AIS underwent stroke imaging (non-contrast enhanced CT, CT perfusion, and CT angiography) using a commercially available 64-slice CT scanner which was modified for combined use with a C-arm system. In patients with large vessel occlusion, MT was conducted without further patient transfer within the CT imaging suite using a mobile C-arm X-ray device equipped with a 30×30 cm (12×12 inch), 1.5×1.5 k full-view flat detector which was positioned between the gantry and patient table. The safety and feasibility of this new system was assessed in preliminary patients.

Results

Angiographic imaging quality of the mobile C-arm was feasible and satisfactory for diagnostic angiography and MT. Using this setup, time between stroke imaging and groin puncture (picture-to-puncture time) was reduced by up to 35 min (including time for preparation of the patient such as intubation).

Conclusions

MT using a combined CT/C-arm system is safe and feasible. The potential advantages, particularly time saving and ensuing improvement in patient outcome, need to be assessed in a larger study.
A class of Schrödinger–Virasoro type Lie conformal algebras
Authors: Wang Wei , Xu Ying , Xia Chunguang
Published: May 2015

In this paper, a class of Lie conformal algebras associated to a Schrödinger–Virasoro type Lie algebra is constructed, which is nonsimple and can be regarded as an extension of the Virasoro conformal algebra. Then conformal derivations, second cohomology group with trivial coefficients and conformal modules of rank 1 of this Lie conformal algebra are investigated.
Dynamic analysis of pedestrian crossing behaviors on traffic flow at unsignalized mid-block crosswalks
Authors: Liu Gang , He Jing , Luo Zhiyong , Yang Wunian , Zhang Xiping
Published: May 2015

It is important to study the effects of pedestrian crossing behaviors on traffic flow for solving the urban traffic jam problem. Based on the Nagel–Schreckenberg (NaSch) traffic cellular automata (TCA) model, a new one-dimensional TCA model is proposed considering the uncertainty conflict behaviors between pedestrians and vehicles at unsignalized mid-block crosswalks and defining the parallel updating rules of motion states of pedestrians and vehicles. The traffic flow is simulated for different vehicle densities and behavior trigger probabilities. The fundamental diagrams show that no matter what the values of vehicle braking probability, pedestrian acceleration crossing probability, pedestrian backing probability and pedestrian generation probability, the system flow shows the "increasing–saturating–decreasing" trend with the increase of vehicle density; when the vehicle braking probability is lower, it is easy to cause an emergency brake of vehicle and result in great fluctuation of saturated flow; the saturated flow decreases slightly with the increase of the pedestrian acceleration crossing probability; when the pedestrian backing probability lies between 0.4 and 0.6, the saturated flow is unstable, which shows the hesitant behavior of pedestrians when making the decision of backing; the maximum flow is sensitive to the pedestrian generation probability and rapidly decreases with increasing the pedestrian generation probability, the maximum flow is approximately equal to zero when the probability is more than 0.5. The simulations prove that the influence of frequent crossing behavior upon vehicle flow is immense; the vehicle flow decreases and gets into serious congestion state rapidly with the increase of the pedestrian generation probability.
Generalized susceptibilities and Landau parameters for anisotropic Fermi liquids
Authors: Rodríguez-Ponte P. , Cabra D. , Grandi N.
Published: May 2015

We study Fermi liquids (FLs) with a Fermi surface that lacks continuous rotational invariance and in the presence of an arbitrary quartic interaction. We obtain the expressions of the generalized static susceptibilities that measure the linear response of a generic order parameter to a perturbation of the Hamiltonian. We apply our formulae to the spin and charge susceptibilities. Based on the resulting expressions, we make a proposal for the definition of the Landau parameters in nonisotropic FL.
Structural stability and elastic properties of WB4 under high pressure
Authors: Wu Xiao-Long , Zhou Xiao-Lin , Chang Jing
Published: May 2015

A comparative study on the structure stability and elastic properties for various types of tungsten tetraboride ( WB 4) has been carried out with the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) and local density approximation (LDA) in the framework of density functional theory (DFT). Five types of WB 4 are considered i.e., orthorhombic Immm, Pnnm, Pmmn, monoclinic C2/m and hexagonal P63/mmc structure. Our calculations indicate that the P63/mmc-4u structure of WB 4 is unstable at both ambient and pressure conditions, but the other four types of WB 4 are stable, in agreement with recent theoretical results. By eliminating mechanical calculations, we find that the four types (C2/m, Immm, Pnnm and Pmmn) of WB 4 are potential candidates to be ultra-incompressible and hard materials. Moreover, the WB 4 in C2/m type is the most ultra-incompressible among the considered structures due to its superior mechanical properties, and the P63/mmc-2u structure of WB 4 is not considered to be hard material because of its low hardness. In addition, the calculated B/G ratio exhibits the positive pressure dependence, and four types show brittle nature within 100 GPa.
Biochemical and Functional Comparisons ofmdxandSgcg−/−Muscular Dystrophy Mouse Models
Authors: Roberts Nathan W. , Holley-Cuthrell Jenan , Gonzalez-Vega Magdalis , Mull Aaron J. , Heydemann Ahlke
Published: May 2015

Mouse models have provided an essential platform to investigate facets of human diseases, from etiology, diagnosis, and prognosis, to potential treatments. Muscular dystrophy (MD) is the most common human genetic disease occurring in approximately 1 in 2500 births. Themdxmouse, which is dystrophin-deficient, has long been used to model this disease. However, this mouse strain displays a rather mild disease course compared to human patients. Themdxmice have been bred to additional genetically engineered mice to worsen the disease. Alternatively, other genes which cause human MD have been genetically disrupted in mice. We are now comparing disease progression from one of these alternative gene disruptions, theγ-sarcoglycan null mouseSgcg−/−on the DBA2/J background, to themdxmouse line. This paper aims to assess the time-course severity of the disease in the mouse models and determine which is best for MD research. TheSgcg−/−mice have a more severe phenotype than themdxmice. Muscle function was assessed by plethysmography and echocardiography. Histologically theSgcg−/−mice displayed increased fibrosis and variable fiber size. By quantitative Evan’s blue dye uptake and hydroxyproline content two key disease determinants, membrane permeability and fibrosis respectively, were also proven worse in theSgcg−/−mice.
Deletion of 7q33-q35 in a Patient with Intellectual Disability and Dysmorphic Features: Further Characterization of 7q Interstitial Deletion Syndrome
Authors: Dilzell Kristen , Darcy Diana , Sum John , Wallerstein Robert
Published: May 2015

This case report concerns a 16-year-old girl with a 9.92 Mb, heterozygous interstitial chromosome deletion at 7q33-q35, identified using array comparative genomic hybridization. The patient has dysmorphic facial features, intellectual disability, recurrent infections, self-injurious behavior, obesity, and recent onset of hemihypertrophy. This patient has overlapping features with previously reported individuals who have similar deletions spanning the 7q32-q36 region. It has been difficult to describe an interstitial 7q deletion syndrome due to variations in the sizes and regions in the few patients reported in the literature. This case contributes to the further characterization of an interstitial distal 7q deletion syndrome.
Population Structure and Oxacillin Resistance ofStaphylococcus aureusfrom Pigs and Pork Meat in South-West of Poland
Authors: Krupa Paweł , Bystroń Jarosław , Podkowik Magdalena , Empel Joanna , Mroczkowska Aneta , Bania Jacek
Published: May 2015

The genotypes and oxacillin resistance of 420S. aureusisolates from pigs (n=203) and pork (n=217) were analyzed. Among 18spatypes detected inS. aureusfrom pig t011, t021, t034, t091, t318, t337, and t1334 were the most frequent. Among 30spatypes found inS. aureusisolates from pork t084, t091, t499, t4309, t12954, and t13074 were dominant. The animalS. aureusisolates were clustered into MLST clonal complexes CC7, CC9, CC15, CC30, and CC398 and meat-derived isolates to CC1, CC7, and CC15. Thirty-six MRSA were isolated exclusively from pigs. All MRSA were classified tospat011 SCCmecV. BORSA phenotype was found in 14%S. aureusisolates from pigs and 10% isolates from pork meat.spat034 dominated among BORSA from pigs and t091 among meat-derived BORSA. This is the first report onspatypes and oxacillin resistance ofS. aureusstrains from pigs and pork meat in Poland. BesidesS. aureusCC9, CC30, and CC398 known to be distributed in pigs, the occurrence of genotype belonging to CC7 in this species has been reported for the first time. To our knowledge it is also the first report concerning CC398 BORSA isolates from pigs and pork meat.
MicroRNA Regulation of Brain Tumour Initiating Cells in Central Nervous System Tumours
Authors: Garg Neha , Vijayakumar Thusyanth , Bakhshinyan David , Venugopal Chitra , Singh Sheila K.
Published: May 2015

CNS tumours occur in both pediatric and adult patients and many of these tumours are associated with poor clinical outcome. Due to a paradigm shift in thinking for the last several years, these tumours are now considered to originate from a small population of stem-like cells within the bulk tumour tissue. These cells, termed as brain tumour initiating cells (BTICs), are perceived to be regulated by microRNAs at the posttranscriptional/translational levels. Proliferation, stemness, differentiation, invasion, angiogenesis, metastasis, apoptosis, and cell cycle constitute some of the significant processes modulated by microRNAs in cancer initiation and progression. Characterization and functional studies on oncogenic or tumour suppressive microRNAs are made possible because of developments in sequencing and microarray techniques. In the current review, we bring recent knowledge of the role of microRNAs in BTIC formation and therapy. Special attention is paid to two highly aggressive and well-characterized brain tumours: gliomas and medulloblastoma. As microRNA seems to be altered in the pathogenesis of many human diseases, “microRNA therapy” may now have potential to improve outcomes for brain tumour patients. In this rapidly evolving field, further understanding of miRNA biology and its contribution towards cancer can be mined for new therapeutic tools.
The Impact of Immune System in Regulating Bone Metastasis Formation by Osteotropic Tumors
Authors: D’Amico Lucia , Roato Ilaria
Published: May 2015

Bone metastases are frequent and debilitating consequence for many tumors, such as breast, lung, prostate, and kidney cancer. Many studies report the importance of the immune system in the pathogenesis of bone metastasis. Indeed, bone and immune system are strictly linked to each other because bone regulates the hematopoietic stem cells from which all cells of the immune system derive, and many immunoregulatory cytokines influence the fate of bone cells. Furthermore, both cytokines and factors produced by immune and bone cells promote the growth of tumor cells in bone, contributing to supporting the vicious cycle of bone metastasis. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the interactions among bone, immune, and tumor cells aiming to provide an overview of the osteoimmunology field in bone metastasis from solid tumors.
Experimental Investigation of Factors Influencing Operating Rotor Tip Clearance in Multistage Compressors
Authors: Berdanier Reid A. , Key Nicole L.
Published: May 2015

An analysis of compressor rotor tip clearance measurements using capacitance probe instrumentation is discussed for a three-stage axial compressor. Thermal variations and centrifugal effects related to rotational speed changes affect clearance heights relative to the assembled configuration. These two primary contributions to measured changes are discussed both independently and in combination. Emphasis is given to tip clearance changes due to changing loading condition and at several compressor operating speeds. Measurements show a tip clearance change approaching 0.1 mm (0.2% rotor span) when comparing a near-choke operating condition to a near-stall operating condition for the third stage. Additional consideration is given to environmental contributions such as ambient temperature, for which changes in tip clearance height on the order of 0.05 mm (0.1% rotor span) were noted for temperature variations of 15°C. Experimental compressor operating clearances are presented for several temperatures, operating speeds, and loading conditions, and comparisons are drawn between these measured variations and predicted changes under the same conditions.
Influence of the Three Gorges Project on the Water Resource Components of Poyang Lake Watershed: Observations from TRMM and GRACE
Authors: Cai Xiaobin , Feng Lian , Wang Yuxi , Chen Xiaoling
Published: May 2015

The Three Gorges Project (TGP) has received many criticisms about its potential effects on the changes in the downstream ecosystems. Poyang Lake is the largest body of water downstream of the TGP, and it is not immune to these changes. TRMM and GRACE data were introduced in this study to estimate river-lake water exchange, from which the hydrological responses of Poyang Lake could be identified. A significant decreasing trend of the runoff coefficient has been observed since 2003, resulting in 6.02 km3more water discharge from the lake into the Yangtze River than under normal conditions. No significant interannual changes occurred in the water level or local precipitation, and GRACE observations revealed that groundwater discharge appeared to be the most likely compensation for the water loss. A novel approach, namely, the groundwater abnormality index (GAI), was developed to depict the water exchange using GRACE and surface water observations. Lower than normal GAIs were found between 2003 and 2005, reaching a minimum of −29.26 in October 2003, corresponding to ten times of the mean GAI during 2006–2012, clearly indicating a significant water exchange in Poyang Lake Basin from groundwater to surface water after the TGP impoundment.
Morphine Promotes Tumor Angiogenesis and Increases Breast Cancer Progression
Authors: Bimonte Sabrina , Barbieri Antonio , Rea Domenica , Palma Giuseppe , Luciano Antonio , Cuomo Arturo , Arra Claudio , Izzo Francesco
Published: May 2015

Morphine is considered a highly potent analgesic agent used to relieve suffering of patients with cancer. Severalin vitroandin vivostudies showed that morphine also modulates angiogenesis and regulates tumour cell growth. Unfortunately, the results obtained by these studies are still contradictory. In order to better dissect the role of morphine in cancer cell growth and angiogenesis we performedin vitrostudies on ER-negative human breast carcinoma cells, MDA.MB231 andin vivostudies on heterotopic mouse model of human triple negative breast cancer, TNBC. We demonstrated that morphinein vitroenhanced the proliferation and inhibited the apoptosis of MDA.MB231 cells.In vivostudies performed on xenograft mouse model of TNBC revealed that tumours of mice treated with morphine were larger than those observed in other groups. Moreover, morphine was able to enhance the neoangiogenesis. Our data showed that morphine at clinical relevant doses promotes angiogenesis and increases breast cancer progression.
A New Equation Relating the Viscosity Arrhenius Temperature and the Activation Energy for Some Newtonian Classical Solvents
Authors: Messaâdi Aymen , Dhouibi Nesrine , Hamda Hatem , Belgacem Fethi Bin Muhammad , Adbelkader Yousry Hessein , Ouerfelli Noureddine , Hamzaoui Ahmed Hichem
Published: May 2015

In transport phenomena, precise knowledge or estimation of fluids properties is necessary, for mass flow and heat transfer computations. Viscosity is one of the important properties which are affected by pressure and temperature. In the present work, based on statistical techniques for nonlinear regression analysis and correlation tests, we propose a novel equation modeling the relationship between the two parameters of viscosity Arrhenius-type equation, such as the energy (Ea) and the preexponential factor (As). Then, we introduce a third parameter, the Arrhenius temperature (TA), to enrich the model and the discussion. Empirical validations using 75 data sets of viscosity of pure solvents studied at different temperature ranges are provided from previous works in the literature and give excellent statistical correlations, thus allowing us to rewrite the Arrhenius equation using a single parameter instead of two. In addition, the suggested model is very beneficial for engineering data since it would permit estimating the missing parameter value, if a well-established estimate of the other parameter is readily available.
Ameliorating Effect of Transcutaneous Electroacupuncture on Impaired Gastric Accommodation in Patients with Postprandial Distress Syndrome-Predominant Functional Dyspepsia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Xu Feng , Tan Yan , Huang Zhihui , Zhang Nina , Xu Yuemei , Yin Jieyun
Published: May 2015

Patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) have both reduced gastric accommodation and impaired gastric motility that are difficult to treat. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) for both of these disorders in FD patients. Acute experiments were performed in FD patients to study the effect of TEA and sham-TEA on gastric accommodation assessed by a nutrient drink test and gastric motility assessed by the measurement of the electrogastrogram (EGG). TEA or sham-TEA was performed via cutaneous electrodes at acupoints ST36 and PC6 or sham-points nonacupoints. It was found that (1) gastric accommodation (maximum tolerable volume) was reduced in FD patients compared with the controlsP<0.03. TEA improved gastric accommodation in FD patientsP<0.02. (2) Acute TEA significantly increased the percentage and power of normal gastric slow waves in the fed state assessed in the FD patients by the EGG in comparison with sham-TEA. (3) TEA increased vagal activity assessed by the spectral analysis of the heart rate variability in the fed state in FD patients. It was concluded that needleless method of transcutaneous electroacupuncture may have a therapeutic potential for treating both impaired gastric accommodation and impaired gastric motility in patients with FD.
Development of a Model of Chronic Kidney Disease in the C57BL/6 Mouse with Properties of Progressive Human CKD
Authors: Mohammed-Ali Zahraa , Cruz Gaile L. , Lu Chao , Carlisle Rachel E. , Werner Kaitlyn E. , Ask Kjetil , Dickhout Jeffrey G.
Published: May 2015

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major healthcare problem with increasing prevalence in the population. CKD leads to end stage renal disease and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. As such, it is important to study the mechanisms underlying CKD progression. To this end, an animal model was developed to allow the testing of new treatment strategies or molecular targets for CKD prevention. Many underlying risk factors result in CKD but the disease itself has common features, including renal interstitial fibrosis, tubular epithelial cell loss through apoptosis, glomerular damage, and renal inflammation. Further, CKD shows differences in prevalence between the genders with premenopausal women being relatively resistant to CKD. We sought to develop and characterize an animal model with these common features of human CKD in the C57BL/6 mouse. Mice of this genetic background have been used to produce transgenic strains that are commercially available. Thus, a CKD model in this strain would allow the testing of the effects of numerous genes on the severity or progression of CKD with minimal cost. This paper describes such a mouse model of CKD utilizing angiotensin II and deoxycorticosterone acetate as inducers.
Differences in Method-Specific Vancomycin MICs and Induced Daptomycin Resistance in an Infective Endocarditis Patient
Authors: Lash David Benjamin , Joson Jeremiah , Heidari Arash
Published: May 2015

Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) is a common nosocomial infection that has a high burden of morbidity and mortality. Vancomycin is the often-used antibiotic of choice when MRSA is suspected as a causative infectious agent. Recent studies have called into question the reliability of vancomycin as empiric therapy, especially in instances of bacteremia. The isolate’s minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), the source of infection, modality of susceptibility testing, and antibiotic resistance are all issues that should be taken into consideration when formulating a care plan for a patient. We present a case that illustrates some of these issues clinicians are facing.
On ϕ-Absorbing Primary Elements in Lattice Modules
Authors: Ballal Sachin , Kharat Vilas
Published: May 2015

Let L be a C-lattice and let M be a lattice module over L. Let ϕ:M→M be a function. A proper element P∈M is said to be ϕ-absorbing primary if, for x1,x2,…,xn∈L and N∈M, x1x2⋯xnN≤P and x1x2⋯xnN≰ϕ(P) together imply x1x2⋯xn≤(P:1M) or x1x2⋯xi-1xi+1⋯xnN≤PM, for some i∈{1,2,…,n}. We study some basic properties of ϕ-absorbing primary elements. Also, various generalizations of prime and primary elements in multiplicative lattices and lattice modules as ϕ-absorbing elements and ϕ-absorbing primary elements are unified.
Recognition of Immune Response for the Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Kandahari Adrese M. , Yang Xinlin , Dighe Abhijit S. , Pan Dongfeng , Cui Quanjun
Published: May 2015

Osteoarthritis is a common and debilitating joint disease that affects up to 30 million Americans, leading to significant disability, reduction in quality of life, and costing the United States tens of billions of dollars annually. Classically, osteoarthritis has been characterized as a degenerative, wear-and-tear disease, but recent research has identified it as an immunopathological disease on a spectrum between healthy condition and rheumatoid arthritis. A systematic literature review demonstrates that the disease pathogenesis is driven by an early innate immune response which progressively catalyzes degenerative changes that ultimately lead to an altered joint microenvironment. It is feasible to detect this infiltration of cells in the early, and presumably asymptomatic, phase of the disease through noninvasive imaging techniques. This screening can serve to aid clinicians in potentially identifying high-risk patients, hopefully leading to early effective management, vast improvements in quality of life, and significant reductions in disability, morbidity, and cost related to osteoarthritis. Although the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis routinely utilize both invasive and non-invasive strategies, imaging techniques specific to inflammatory cells are not commonly employed for these purposes. This review discusses this paradigm and aims to shift the focus of future osteoarthritis-related research towards early diagnosis of the disease process.
Pathogenesis of Bone Alterations in Gaucher Disease: The Role of Immune System
Authors: Mucci Juan Marcos , Rozenfeld Paula
Published: May 2015

Gaucher, the most prevalent lysosomal disorder, is an autosomal recessive inherited disorder due to a deficiency of glucocerebrosidase. Glucocerebrosidase deficiency leads to the accumulation of glucosylceramide primarily in cells of mononuclear-macrophage lineage. Clinical alterations are visceral, hematological, and skeletal. Bone disorder in Gaucher disease produces defects on bone metabolism and structure and patients suffer from bone pain and crisis. Skeletal problems include osteopenia, osteoporosis, osteolytic lesions, and osteonecrosis. On the other hand a chronic stimulation of the immune system is a well-accepted hallmark in this disease. In this review we summarize the latest findings in the mechanisms leading to the bone pathology in Gaucher disease in relationship with the proinflammatory state.
Intratracheal Bleomycin Aerosolization: The Best Route of Administration for a Scalable and Homogeneous Pulmonary Fibrosis Rat Model?
Authors: Robbe Alexandre , Tassin Alexandra , Carpentier Justine , Declèves Anne-Emilie , Mekinda Ngono Zita Léa , Nonclercq Denis , Legrand Alexandre
Published: May 2015

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic disease with a poor prognosis and is characterized by the accumulation of fibrotic tissue in lungs resulting from a dysfunction in the healing process. In humans, the pathological process is patchy and temporally heterogeneous and the exact mechanisms remain poorly understood. Different animal models were thus developed. Among these, intratracheal administration of bleomycin (BML) is one of the most frequently used methods to induce lung fibrosis in rodents. In the present study, we first characterized histologically the time-course of lung alteration in rats submitted to BLM instillation. Heterogeneous damages were observed among lungs, consisting in an inflammatory phase at early time-points. It was followed by a transition to a fibrotic state characterized by an increased myofibroblast number and collagen accumulation. We then compared instillation and aerosolization routes of BLM administration. The fibrotic process was studied in each pulmonary lobe using a modified Ashcroft scale. The two quantification methods were confronted and the interobserver variability evaluated. Both methods induced fibrosis development as demonstrated by a similar progression of the highest modified Ashcroft score. However, we highlighted that aerosolization allows a more homogeneous distribution of lesions among lungs, with a persistence of higher grade damages upon time.
Detection of Rotor Forced Response Vibrations Using Stationary Pressure Transducers in a Multistage Axial Compressor
Authors: Murray William L. , Key Nicole L.
Published: May 2015

Blade row interactions in turbomachinery can lead to blade vibrations and even high cycle fatigue. Forced response conditions occur when a forcing function (such as impingement of stator wakes) occurs at a frequency that matches the natural frequency of a blade. The objective of this research is to develop the data processing techniques needed to detect rotor blade vibration in a forced response condition from stationary fast-response pressure transducers to allow for detection of rotor vibration from transient data and lead to techniques for vibration monitoring in gas turbines. This paper marks the first time in the open literature that engine-order resonant response of an embedded bladed disk in a 3-stage intermediate-speed axial compressor was detected using stationary pressure transducers. Experiments were performed in a stage axial research compressor focusing on the embedded rotor of blisk construction. Fourier waterfall graphs from a laser tip timing system were used to detect the vibrations after applying signal processing methods to uncover these pressure waves associated with blade vibration. Individual blade response was investigated using cross covariance to compare blade passage pressure signatures through resonance. Both methods agree with NSMS data that provide a measure of the exact compressor speeds at which individual blades enter resonance.