bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Schistosoma japonicum: susceptibility of neonate mice born to infected and noninfected mothers following subsequent challenge
Authors: Zhao F. , Huang X. , Hou X. , Deng Y. , Wu M. , Guan F. , Liu W. , Li Y. , Lei J.
Published: February 2013

This study was to investigate the differences between neonate mice born to Schistosoma japonicum‐infected mothers and those born to noninfected mothers in subsequent challenge. The intensity of infection (evidenced by worm burden and liver egg burden) and liver immunopathology (number and size of liver granulomas) were significantly reduced in neonates from infected mothers (I.M.) compared with neonates from noninfected mothers (N.M.). Anti‐soluble worm antigen of S. japonicum (SWA) IgG could be detected in sera of neonates from I.M. (N.N./I.M.) at 1 week after delivery, remained a plateau for 2 weeks and gradually decreased until 8 weeks of age. Parasite‐specific IgM was not detected in sera from N.N./I.M. at any time after delivery. At 6 weeks after infection, the level of anti‐SWA IgG in infected neonates from I.M. (I.N./I.M.) was significantly higher than that of infected neonates from N.M. (I.N./N.M.). In addition, production of IFN‐γ, IL‐12 and TGF‐β by cultured splenocytes from I.N./I.M. was significantly increased, while the level of IL‐4 was significantly decreased when compared to those from I.N./N.M.. These data demonstrate that congenital exposure to schistosomiasis japonica may render neonatal mice born to I.M. less susceptible to subsequent challenge and result in down‐regulation of both infection intensity and immunopathology.
A Comparison of the Accuracy of Liquid CytologyVersusConventional Screening: A Meta-Analysis of Split-Sample Studies
Authors: Epstein David , Labry Lima de Antonio Olry , Mochón Leticia García , Balbino Jaime Espín , Esquivias Javier
Published: February 2013

The aim of the paper is to compare the accuracy and effectiveness of liquid-based versus conventional cytology when used as part of a process of population screening to reduce the incidence of invasive cervical cancer. Data from split-sample studies were analysed by using a hierarchical Bayesian multiparameter evidence synthesis model. Predictions of sensitivity and specificity were derived without having a procedure to detect the lesions. Results suggest that the specificity of both tests is high, such that less than 1% of normal samples are expected to be misdiagnosed. However, the sensitivity may be lower, with around 81% of lesions expected to be correctly diagnosed in smear tests and 88% in liquid-based cytology.
On Information Quality
Authors: Kenett Ron S. , Shmueli Galit
Published: February 2013

We define the concept of information quality ‘InfoQ’ as the potential of a data set to achieve a specific (scientific or practical) goal by using a given empirical analysis method. InfoQ is different from data quality and analysis quality, but is dependent on these components and on the relationship between them. We survey statistical methods for increasing InfoQ at the study design and post-data-collection stages, and we consider them relatively to what we define as InfoQ. We propose eight dimensions that help to assess InfoQ: data resolution, data structure, data integration, temporal relevance, generalizability, chronology of data and goal, construct operationalization and communication. We demonstrate the concept of InfoQ, its components (what it is) and assessment (how it is achieved) through three case-studies in on-line auctions research. We suggest that formalizing the concept of InfoQ can help to increase the value of statistical analysis, and data mining both methodologically and practically, thus contributing to a general theory of applied statistics.
Facies model of a fine‐grained, tide‐dominated delta: Lower Dir Abu Lifa Member (Eocene), Western Desert, Egypt
Authors: Legler Berit , Johnson Howard D. , Hampson Gary J. , Massart Benoit Y.G. , Jackson Chris A‐L. , Jackson Matthew D. , El‐Barkooky Ahmed , Ravnas Rodmar
Published: February 2013

Existing facies models of tide‐dominated deltas largely omit fine‐grained, mud‐rich successions. Sedimentary facies and sequence stratigraphic analysis of the exceptionally well‐preserved Late Eocene Dir Abu Lifa Member (Western Desert, Egypt) aims to bridge this gap. The succession was deposited in a structurally controlled, shallow, macrotidal embayment and deposition was supplemented by fluvial processes but lacked wave influence. The succession contains two stacked, progradational parasequence sets bounded by regionally extensive flooding surfaces. Within this succession two main genetic elements are identified: non‐channelized tidal bars and tidal channels. Non‐channelized tidal bars comprise coarsening‐upward sandbodies, including large, downcurrent‐dipping accretion surfaces, sometimes capped by palaeosols indicating emergence. Tidal channels are preserved as single‐storey and multilateral bodies filled by: (i) laterally migrating, elongate tidal bars (inclined heterolithic strata, 5 to 25 m thick); (ii) forward‐facing lobate bars (sigmoidal heterolithic strata, up to 10 m thick); (iii) side bars displaying oblique to vertical accretion (4 to 7 m thick); or (iv) vertically‐accreting mud (1 to 4 m thick). Palaeocurrent data show that channels were swept by bidirectional tidal currents and typically were mutually evasive. Along‐strike variability defines a similar large‐scale architecture in both parasequence sets: a deeply scoured channel belt characterized by widespread inclined heterolithic strata is eroded from the parasequence‐set top, and flanked by stacked, non‐channelized tidal bars and smaller channelized bodies. The tide‐dominated delta is characterized by: (i) the regressive stratigraphic context; (ii) net‐progradational stratigraphic architecture within the succession; (iii) the absence of upward deepening trends and tidal ravinement surfaces; and (iv) architectural relations that demonstrate contemporaneous tidal distributary channel infill and tidal bar accretion at the delta front. The detailed facies analysis of this fine‐grained, tide‐dominated deltaic succession expands the range of depositional models available for the evaluation of ancient tidal successions, which are currently biased towards transgressive, valley‐confined estuarine and coarser grained deltaic depositional systems.
Oxygenation of shallow marine environments and chemical sedimentation in Palaeoproterozoic peritidal settings: Frere Formation, Western Australia
Authors: Akin Sara J. , Pufahl Peir K. , Hiatt Eric E. , Pirajno Franco
Published: February 2013

The Palaeoproterozoic Frere Formation (ca 1.89 Gyr old) of the Earaheedy Basin, Western Australia, is a ca 600 m thick succession of iron formation and fine‐grained, clastic sedimentary rocks that accumulated on an unrimmed continental margin with oceanic upwelling. Lithofacies stacking patterns suggest that deposition occurred during a marine transgression punctuated by higher frequency relative sea‐level fluctuations that produced five parasequences. Decametre‐scale parasequences are defined by flooding surfaces overlain by either laminated magnetite or magnetite‐bearing, hummocky cross‐stratified sandstone that grades upward into interbedded hematite‐rich mudstone and trough cross‐stratified granular iron formation. Each aggradational cycle is interpreted to record progradation of intertidal and tidal channel sediments over shallow subtidal and storm‐generated deposits of the middle shelf. The presence of aeolian deposits, mud cracks and absence of coarse clastics indicate deposition along an arid coastline with significant wind‐blown sediment input. Iron formation in the Frere Formation, in contrast to most other Palaeoproterozoic examples, was deposited almost exclusively in peritidal environments. These other continental margin iron formations also reflect upwelling of anoxic, Fe‐rich sea water, but accumulated in the full spectrum of shelf environments. Dilution by fine‐grained, windblown terrigenous clastic sediment probably prevented the Frere iron formation from forming in deeper settings. Lithofacies associations and interpreted paragenetic pathways of Fe‐rich lithofacies further suggest precipitation in sea water with a prominent oxygen chemocline. Although essentially unmetamorphosed, the complex diagenetic history of the Frere Formation demonstrates that understanding the alteration of iron formation is a prerequisite for any investigation seeking to interpret ocean‐atmosphere evolution. Unlike studies that focus exclusively on their chemistry, an approach that also considers palaeoenvironment and oceanography, as well the effects of post‐depositional fluid flow and alteration, mitigates the potential for incorrectly interpreting geochemical data.
The Distinct Psychologies of “Looking” and “Leaping”: Assessment and Locomotion as the Springs of Action
Authors: Kruglanski Arie W. , Pierro Antonio , Mannetti Lucia , Higgins Tory E.
Published: February 2013

Actions require two essential functions: assessment and locomotion. Assessment determines one’s goals and selects the means. Locomotion translates these into concrete behavior. In past work, assessment and locomotion have been portrayed as co‐ordinated and interdependent, or associated with different action phases. In contrast, we review recent theorizing and research that depict assessment and locomotion as autonomous and complementary. Recent evidence supports this conception for the behavior of individuals, groups, organizations, and cultures in reference to actions at different levels of analysis.
Pedogenesis, land management and soil classification in hyper‐arid environments: results and implications from a case study in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Abdelfattah M. A.
Published: February 2013

A study of the soils in the Northern Emirates (NE), which covers 8.2% of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was undertaken applying the USDA Soil Taxonomy (ST) to classify soils up to the family level. The objective of the study was to identify the key factors and processes responsible for soil formation in hyper‐arid environments in general and the study area in particular and to draw conclusions regarding soil classification and land management. Fifteen pedons representing the major soils in the region were investigated. Samples were collected, processed and analysed for physical, chemical and mineralogical characteristics. Factors controlling soil development such as parent material, climate, plants and animals, relief, time, human activities and processes of salinization, calcification, gypsification, sodification and aeolian deposition were evaluated to guide soil classification and management. Data from soil families were used for describing and comparing soil‐forming factors and processes. It is concluded that these factors and processes play major roles in influencing soil use and management. There are also strong relationships between these factors and processes and the relevant soil taxa from Soil Taxonomy.
A Triangular Form‐based Multiple Flow Algorithm to Estimate Overland Flow Distribution and Accumulation on a Digital Elevation Model
Authors: Pilesjö Petter , Hasan Abdulghani
Published: February 2013

In this study, we present a newly developed method for the estimation of surface flow paths on a digital elevation model (DEM). The objective is to use a form‐based algorithm, analyzing flow over single cells by dividing them into eight triangular facets and to estimate the surface flow paths on a raster DEM. For each cell on a gridded DEM, the triangular form‐based multiple flow algorithm (TFM) was used to distribute flow to one or more of the eight neighbor cells, which determined the flow paths over the DEM. Because each of the eight facets covering a cell has a constant slope and aspect, the estimations of – for example – flow direction and divergence/convergence are more intuitive and less complicated than many traditional raster‐based solutions. Experiments were undertaken by estimating the specific catchment area (SCA) over a number of mathematical surfaces, as well as on a real‐world DEM. Comparisons were made between the derived SCA by the TFM algorithm with eight other algorithms reported in the literature. The results show that the TFM algorithm produced the closest outcomes to the theoretical values of the SCA compared with other algorithms, derived more consistent outcomes, and was less influenced by surface shapes. The real‐world DEM test shows that the TFM was capable of modeling flow distribution without noticeable ‘artefacts’, and its ability to track flow paths makes it an appropriate platform for dynamic surface flow simulation.
Comparison of the diagnostic value of procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lyu Y.‐X. , Yu X.‐C. , Zhu M.‐Y.
Published: February 2013

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the performance of the procalcitonin (PCT) diagnostic test for identifying infectious complications after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Methods

We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, the Cochrane database, and reference lists of relevant articles, with no language restrictions, through December 2011. We selected original articles that reported diagnostic performance of PCT alone or compared with other biomarkers for identifying serious infections in HSCT recipients. We quantitatively evaluated test accuracy parameters with the use of forest plots, hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves, and bivariate random effect models.

Results

We found 6 qualifying studies (studying 1344 episodes of suspected infection with confirmed infectious episodes) from 3 countries. These 6 studies examined both PCT and C‐reactive protein (CRP) test performance. Bivariate pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratios, and negative likelihood ratios were 0.66 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.60–0.72), 0.72 (95% CI 0.65–0.79), 2.39 (95% CI 1.84– 3.09), and 0.47 (95% CI 0.39–0.57) for PCT, and 0.80 (95% CI 0.54–0.93), 0.73 (95% CI 0.56–0.86), 3.00 (95% CI 1.86–4.84), and 0.27 (95% CI 0.11–0.65) for CRP. In terms of area under the curve (AUC), CRP was superior to PCT in detecting infectious complications, with an AUC of 0.82 for CRP versus an AUC of 0.69 for PCT.

Conclusion

The pooled accuracy estimates of 6 different studies indicated only a moderate rule‐out diagnostic value of both PCT and CRP in discriminating infection from other inflammatory complications following allogeneic HSCT.
Eczema herpeticum with herpetic folliculitis after bone marrow transplant under prophylactic acyclovir: are patients with underlying dermatologic disorders at higher risk?
Authors: Mir‐Bonafé J.M. , Román‐Curto C. , Santos‐Briz A. , Palacios‐Álvarez I. , Santos‐Durán J.C. , Fernández‐López E.
Published: February 2013

We present an unreported coexistence: eczema herpeticum (EH) with histopathological findings of herpetic folliculitis (HF) after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT). A patient with atopic dermatitis (AD) underwent allogeneic BMT for idiopathic acquired aplastic anemia. She had been receiving cyclosporine (150 mg/12 h) and acyclovir (400 mg/12 h) for 6 months. A facial rash was observed, composed of monotonous erythematous, umbilicated papulo‐vesicles and papulo‐crusts <4 mm in size. The histopathological study showed herpetic cytopathic changes within the epidermis that extended into the hair follicle epithelium. Interestingly, microscopic HF has not previously been associated with post‐transplant patients or EH. However, it is reasonable to hypothesize that the coexistence of these herpes simplex virus‐related events may be underreported in the literature. Although further studies are necessary, we suggest that the prophylactic antiviral dose after BMT be enhanced in patients with underlying dermatologic diseases, especially in those with AD.
Estimation of the Rate of Egg Contamination from Salmonella‐Infected Chickens
Authors: Arnold M. E. , Martelli F. , McLaren I. , Davies R. H.
Published: February 2013

Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) is one of the most prevalent causes for human gastroenteritis and is by far the predominant Salmonella serovar among human cases, followed by Salmonella Typhimurium. Contaminated eggs produced by infected laying hens are thought to be the main source of human infection with S. Enteritidis throughout the world. Although previous studies have looked at the proportion of infected eggs from infected flocks, there is still uncertainty over the rate at which infected birds produce contaminated eggs. The aim of this study was to estimate the rate at which infected birds produce contaminated egg shells and egg contents. Data were collected from two studies, consisting of 15 and 20 flocks, respectively. Faecal and environmental sampling and testing of ovaries/caeca from laying hens were carried out in parallel with (i) for the first study, testing 300 individual eggs, contents and shells together and (ii) for the second study, testing 4000 eggs in pools of six, with shells and contents tested separately. Bayesian methods were used to estimate the within‐flock prevalence of infection from the faecal and hen post‐mortem data, and this was related to the proportion of positive eggs. Results indicated a linear relationship between the rate of contamination of egg contents and the prevalence of infected chickens, but a nonlinear (quadratic) relationship between infection prevalence and the rate of egg shell contamination, with egg shell contamination occurring at a much higher rate than that of egg contents. There was also a significant difference in the rate of egg contamination between serovars, with S. Enteritidis causing a higher rate of contamination of egg contents and a lower rate of contamination of egg shells compared to non‐S. Enteritidis serovars. These results will be useful for risk assessments of human exposure to Salmonella‐contaminated eggs.
Tolerance Analysis and Allocation for Design of a Self-Aligning Coupling Assembly Using Tolerance-Maps
Authors: Singh Gagandeep , Ameta Gaurav , Davidson Joseph K. , Shah Jami J.
Published: February 2013

A self-aligning coupling is used as a vehicle to show that the Tolerance-Map (T-Map) mathematical model for geometric tolerances can distinguish between related and unrelated actual mating envelopes as described in the ASME/ISO standards. The coupling example illustrates how T-Maps (Patent No. 6963824) may be used for tolerance assignment during design of assemblies that contain non-congruent features in contact. Both worst-case and statistical measures are obtained for the variation in alignment of the axes of the two engaged parts of the coupling in terms of the tolerances. The statistical study is limited to contributions from the geometry of toleranced features and their tolerance-zones. Although contributions from characteristics of manufacturing machinery are presumed to be uniform, the method described in the paper is robust enough to include different types of manufacturing bias in the future. An important result is that any misalignment in the coupling depends only on tolerances, not on any dimension of the coupling.
Response to Comments on "Large Volcanic Aerosol Load in the Stratosphere Linked to Asian Monsoon Transport"
Authors: Bourassa Adam E. , Robock Alan , Randel William J. , Deshler Terry , Rieger Landon A. , Lloyd Nicholas D. , Llewellyn E. J. , Degenstein Douglas A.
Published: February 2013

Fromm
et al
. and Vernier
et al
. suggest that their analyses of satellite measurements indicate that the main part of the Nabro volcanic plume from the eruption on 13 June 2011 was directly injected into the stratosphere. We address these analyses and, in addition, show that both wind trajectories and height-resolved profiles of sulfur dioxide indicate that although the eruption column may have extended higher than the Smithsonian report we highlighted, it was overwhelmingly tropospheric. Additionally, the height-resolved sulfur dioxide profiles provide further convincing evidence for convective transport of volcanic gas to the stratosphere from deep convection associated with the Asian monsoon.
Heredity—The Very Long View

A Cultural History of Heredity
by Staffan Müller-Wille and Hans-Jörg Rheinberger

University of Chicago Press, Chicago, 2012. 337 pp. $45, £29. ISBN 9780226545707.
Authors: Landecker Hannah
Published: February 2013

In a fairly concise survey, the authors chart the shifting interpretations of the concept of heredity from the early modern period through to the present.
A Histone Mutant Reproduces the Phenotype Caused by Loss of Histone-Modifying Factor Polycomb
Authors: Pengelly Ana Raquel , Copur Ömer , Jäckle Herbert , Herzig Alf , Müller Jürg
Published: February 2013

Genetic Epigenetics

Posttranslational modifications of histone proteins have been implicated in the regulation of gene transcription in organisms ranging from yeast to humans. However, epigenetic regulators can modify multiple proteins. By mutating specific histone sites in
Drosophila
,

Pengelly
et al.

(p.
698
) demonstrate that mutation of lysine 27 of histone H3 causes the same transcriptional defects as those observed in mutants lacking the methyltransferase PRC2 that modifies this H3 residue. These results demonstrate the functional importance of H3-K27 methylation in Polycomb repression. Furthermore, this genetic approach may be applied to investigating numerous other metazoan-specific histone modifications.
Copying Biology's Ways with Hydrogen
Authors: Armstrong Fraser A.
Published: February 2013

A model iron-nickel compound that mimics the core of hydrogenase enzymes provides insights into the formation of the H
−
intermediate.

[Also see Report by

Ogo
et al.

]
"Novel features of considerable interest"

The Annotated and Illustrated Double Helix
by James D. Watson. Alexander Gann and Jan Witkowski, Eds.

Simon and Schuster, New York, 2012. 363 pp. $30, C$34.99. ISBN 9781476715490.
Authors: Comfort Nathaniel
Published: February 2013

Adding documents, photographs, and notes, the editors have enriched the classic memoir that Watson originally titled
Honest Jim
.
Fossils Versus Clocks
Authors: Yoder Anne D.
Published: February 2013

An extensive morphological analysis supports the conclusion that ancestors of placental mammals evolved rapidly in the Cenozoic.

[Also see Research Article by

O'Leary
et al.

]
Pollution, Politics, and Vultures
Authors: Balmford Andrew
Published: February 2013

The catastrophic collapse of south Asia's vultures may at last be coming to an end, thanks to a ban on the veterinary drug responsible.
Jack of All Trades, Master of Flowering
Authors: Danielson Jonas Å. H. , Frommer Wolf B.
Published: February 2013

A sugar derivative links nutrient availability in plants to the control of flowering.

[Also see Report by

Wahl
et al.

]
Shielding Broken DNA for a Quick Fix
Authors: Lukas Jiri , Lukas Claudia
Published: February 2013

A fast-acting DNA repair mechanism involves a protein complex that blocks an alternative process that requires a cell to wait for repair.

[Also see Reports by

Zimmermann
et al.

and

Di Virgilio
et al.

]
Chu's Legacy at DOE: Some Fields Gain, Others Falter
Authors: Cho Adrian , Malakoff David
Published: February 2013

The Nobel-winning scientist leading the U.S. Energy Department resigns, hopes to return to academia.
Forecasting Regional Climate Change Flunks Its First Test
Authors: Kerr Richard A.
Published: February 2013

Researchers asked: If a regional model does a better job simulating climatology, will it also do a better job forecasting climate change? The answer is no.
Supreme Court to Review the Scope of Monsanto's Seed Patents
Authors: Marshall Eliot
Published: February 2013

How far do seed patents extend, and what do they cover?
Giant Marine Reserves Pose Vast Challenges
Authors: Pala Christopher
Published: February 2013

Huge no-fishing zones might save widely traveled tuna and other species, but monitoring their effectiveness—and enforcing catch bans—will require new approaches.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry Is a Sensitive and Specific Method for Identification of Aerococci
Authors: Senneby Erik , Nilson Bo , Petersson Ann-Cathrine , Rasmussen Magnus
Published: February 2013

Conventional methods for the identification of human-pathogenic aerococci to the species level are not reliable. We show that matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry correctly identifies aerococci to the species level and that it can be used to identify aerococci with high specificity in the diagnostic clinical microbiology laboratory.
Comparison between the Biflex III-Biotyper and the Axima-SARAMIS Systems for Yeast Identification by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lohmann Caroline , Sabou Marcela , Moussaoui Wardi , Prévost Gilles , Delarbre Jean-Marie , Candolfi Ermanno , Gravet Alain , Letscher-Bru Valérie
Published: February 2013

Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) is emerging in laboratories as a new diagnostic tool for microorganism identification. We prospectively compared the performances of the Biflex III-Biotyper (Bruker Daltonics) and the Axima (Shimadzu)-SARAMIS (AnagnosTec) systems for the identification of 312 yeasts isolated from clinical specimens (249
Candida
spp., including 19
C. albicans
and 230 non-
albicans
species and 63 isolates belonging to different species of the genera
Saccharomyces
[20 isolates],
Rhodotorula
[8 isolates],
Cryptococcus
[8 isolates],
Trichosporon
[7 isolates],
Pichia
[7 isolates],
Geotrichum
[12 isolates], and
Sporopachydermia cereana
[1 isolate]). Species were identified by using routine conventional phenotypical methods and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing in case of discrepancy. We used expanded thresholds for species identification (log score of ≥1.7 with 3 identical consecutive propositions and no discrepancy between the duplicates for the Bruker Daltonics system and similitude of ≥40% with 5 successive identical propositions and no discrepancy between the duplicates for the Shimadzu system). Of the 312 isolates, 272 (87.2%) and 258 (82.7%) were successfully identified by the Bruker Daltonics and Shimadzu systems, respectively. All isolates were successfully identified within the most frequent and clinically relevant
Candida
species by the two systems. Nonvalid results corresponded mainly to species not or poorly represented in the databases. Major misidentifications were observed for 2 isolates (0.6%) by the Bruker Daltonics system and 4 isolates (1.3%) by the Shimadzu system. In conclusion, the performances of the Bruker Daltonics and the Shimadzu systems for yeast identification were good and comparable under routine clinical conditions, despite their differences in sample preparation, database content, and spectrum analysis.
Intensity of the Humoral Response to Cytomegalovirus Is Associated with the Phenotypic and Functional Status of the Immune System
Authors: Alonso Arias R. , Moro-García M. A. , Echeverría A. , Solano-Jaurrieta J. J. , Suárez-García F. M. , López-Larrea C.
Published: February 2013

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection exerts an enormous effect on human immunity, as it is associated with an immune-impaired response, a variety of chronic diseases, and overall survival in elderly individuals. Levels of anti-CMV antibodies may be associated with the differentiation degree of T cell subsets. Titers are significantly higher in the elderly and positively correlated with specific CD4
+
T cell responses to CMV. In the elderly, antibody titers are associated with the degree of differentiation and the T cell receptor excision circle (TREC) content in CD4
+
T cells, with other features of the immune risk profile, and with a reduced ability to respond to immunization
in vivo
. Associations may be absent in young subjects because their anti-CMV antibody titers are lower than those of the elderly. However, comparing young and elderly individuals with similar antibody levels reveals differences in their highly differentiated and naïve T cells. These are more marked in individuals with high titers. In parallel with the increase in anti-CMV antibodies, the elderly experience a significant reduction in absolute counts of naïve CD4
+
T cells, which may be a strategy to compensate for the expansion of differentiated cells and to avoid an increase in total T cells. In summary, our results show that titers of anti-CMV antibodies, and not only CMV seropositivity, are related to differentiation status and immunocompetence in the elderly, making this as an important prognostic marker of the status of immune system function.
Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Virus Glycoproteins Are Targeted by Neutralizing Antibodies and Can Use DC-SIGN as a Receptor for pH-Dependent Entry into Human and Animal Cell Lines
Authors: Hofmann Heike , Li Xingxing , Zhang Xiaoai , Liu Wei , Kühl Annika , Kaup Franziska , Soldan Samantha S. , González-Scarano Francisco , Weber Friedemann , He Yuxian , Pöhlmann Stefan
Published: February 2013

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a novel bunyavirus that recently emerged in China. Infection with SFTSV is associated with case-fatality rates of up to 30%, and neither antivirals nor vaccines are available at present. Development of antiviral strategies requires the elucidation of virus-host cell interactions. Here, we analyzed host cell entry of SFTSV. Employing lentiviral and rhabdoviral vectors, we found that the Gn/Gc glycoproteins (Gn/Gc) of SFTSV mediate entry into a broad range of human and animal cell lines, as well as human macrophages and dendritic cells. The Gn/Gc proteins of La Crosse virus (LACV) and Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV), other members of the bunyavirus family, facilitated entry into an overlapping but not identical range of cell lines, suggesting that SFTSV, LACV, and RVFV might differ in their receptor requirements. Entry driven by SFTSV Gn/Gc was dependent on low pH but did not require the activity of the pH-dependent endosomal/lysosomal cysteine proteases cathepsins B and L. Instead, the activity of a cellular serine protease was required for infection driven by SFTSV and LACV Gn/Gc. Sera from convalescent SFTS patients inhibited SFTSV Gn/Gc-driven host cell entry in a dose-dependent fashion, demonstrating that the vector system employed is suitable to detect neutralizing antibodies. Finally, the C-type lectin DC-SIGN was found to serve as a receptor for SFTSV Gn/Gc-driven entry into cell lines and dendritic cells. Our results provide initial insights into cell tropism, receptor usage, and proteolytic activation of SFTSV and will aid in the understanding of viral spread and pathogenesis.
JE-ADVAX Vaccine Protection against Japanese Encephalitis Virus Mediated by Memory B Cells in the Absence of CD8+T Cells and Pre-Exposure Neutralizing Antibody
Authors: Larena Maximilian , Prow Natalie A. , Hall Roy A. , Petrovsky Nikolai , Lobigs Mario
Published: February 2013

JE-ADVAX is a new, delta inulin-adjuvanted, Japanese encephalitis (JE) candidate vaccine with a strong safety profile and potent immunogenicity that confers efficient immune protection not only against JE virus but also against related neurotropic flaviviruses such as West Nile virus. In this study, we investigated the immunological mechanism of protection by JE-ADVAX vaccine using knockout mice deficient in B cells or CD8+T cells and poor persistence of neutralizing antibody or by adoptive transfer of immune splenocyte subpopulations. We show that memory B cells induced by JE-ADVAX provide long-lived protection against JE even in the absence of detectable pre-exposure serum neutralizing antibodies and without the requirement of CD8+T cells. Upon virus encounter, these vaccine-induced memory B cells were rapidly triggered to produce neutralizing antibodies that then protected immunized mice from morbidity and mortality. The findings suggest that the extent of the B-cell memory compartment might be a better immunological correlate for clinical efficacy of JE vaccines than the currently recommended measure of serum neutralizing antibody. This may explain the paradox where JE protection is observed in some subjects even in the absence of detectable serum neutralizing antibody. Our investigation also established the suitability of a novel flavivirus challenge model (β2-microglobulin-knockout mice) for studies of the role of B-cell memory responses in vaccine protection.
Differential Regulation of Interleukin-12 (IL-12)/IL-23 by Tim-3 Drives TH17 Cell Development during Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Wang Jia M. , Shi Lei , Ma Cheng J. , Ji Xiao J. , Ying Ruo S. , Wu Xiao Y. , Wang Ke S. , Li Guangyu , Moorman Jonathan P. , Yao Zhi Q.
Published: February 2013

Cytokine production by innate immunity is critical for shaping the adaptive immunity through regulation of T cell differentiation. In this report, we studied T cell immunoglobulin mucin domain protein 3 (Tim-3) expression on monocytes and its regulatory effect on interleukin-12 (IL-12)/IL-23 production by CD14+monocytes, as well as IL-17 production by CD4+T cells in individuals with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. We found that Tim-3 and IL-23p19 are highly expressed and that IL-12p35 is inhibited in human CD14+monocytes, while IL-17 expression is upregulated in CD4+T cells, in chronically HCV-infected individuals compared to healthy subjects. Interestingly, Tim-3 expression is closely associated with the differential regulation of IL-12/IL-23 expression in CD14+monocytes and correlated to IL-17 production by CD4+T cells. These Tim-3-associated IL-12/IL-23/IL-17 dysregulations in HCV-infected individuals are also recapitulatedin vitroby incubating healthy monocytes or peripheral blood mononuclear cells with Huh-7 hepatoma cells transfected with HCV RNA. Importantly, blocking Tim-3 signaling on monocytes restores the balance of IL-12/IL-23 through the intracellular STAT3 signaling, which in turn reverses the upregulated IL-17 expression bothex vivoandin vitro. Our findings suggest that Tim-3-mediated differential regulation of IL-12/IL-23 drives TH17 cell development, a milieu favoring viral persistence and autoimmune phenomenon during HCV infection.
IgE-mediated cow milk allergy and infantile colic: diagnostic and management challenges
Authors: Al Dhaheri Watfa , Diksic Dubravka , Ben-Shoshan Moshe
Published: February 2013

Cow milk allergy (CMA) is a common problem affecting 2–3% of children and is the most prevalent food allergy in infancy. Infantile colic is also a common problem in the first year of life. A frequent practice among physicians is to recommend a dairy-free diet to breast-feeding mothers and infants in cases of infantile colic. However, recent studies suggest that late introduction of potentially allergenic foods may increase the risk of developing a life-threatening food allergy. We describe two infants managed with dairy-free diet to control symptoms of colic in whom CMA  developed. It is possible that unnecessary cow milk restriction may have contributed to the development of food allergy in these infants.
Carbimazole-induced lupus
Authors: Haq Ihteshamul , Sosin Michael D , Wharton Simon , Gupta Anindya
Published: February 2013

We describe the case of a 50-year-old lady admitted with a 3-week history of dyspnoea and left-sided pleuritic pain associated with pleural effusion. This common clinical picture nevertheless gave rise to a significant diagnostic challenge. The medical history included a diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis made 6 months previously that was being treated with carbimazole by her general practitioner. Key-investigation results were as follows: (1) pleural fluid was sterile and exudative, with no malignant cells, (2) erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C reactive protein and D-dimer were raised, (3) antinuclear antibody, anti-dsDNA and antihistone antibodies were newly positive, (4) imaging revealed a large left ventricular mass consistent with thrombus in the absence of evidence of a myocardial infarction. Based on the above investigations we hypothesised that carbimazole had induced systemic lupus erythematosus, manifesting as serositis resulting in an exudative pleural effusion and a proinflammatory/prothrombotic state. Carbimazole was stopped. The patient's pleural effusion completely resolved and she remains asymptomatic.
Senile cardiac amyloidosis: an underappreciated cause of heart failure
Authors: Shah Shreena , Dungu Jason , Dubrey Simon William
Published: February 2013

This case presents a patient with biopsy-proven, wild-type transthyretin (TTR) senile amyloidosis. The case was that of a man in his early 70s who presented with gradually progressive symptoms and signs of heart failure. The recent history included an episode of severe pancreatitis secondary to cholelithiasis and subsequently (and incidentally) noted hepatomegaly and marked ascites. Further evaluation of the aetiology of the heart failure, through echocardiography, coronary angiography and endomyocardial biopsy, led to an exact diagnosis of SSA. The patient is being treated with conventional heart failure medications while consideration is given to the use of diflusinal as an antiamyloidogenic small molecular stabiliser of TTR. Monitoring and further management advice are being coordinated by the National Amyloidosis Centre.
Placenta percreta: rare presentation of haemorrhage in the second trimester
Authors: Siwatch Sujata , Chopra Seema , Suri Vanita , Gupta Nalini
Published: February 2013

A 25-year-old woman, third gravid, with previous two miscarriages presented to the emergency at 17 weeks 2 days of gestation with complaints of pain in the abdomen for 1 day and decreased urine output for 2 days. She was in shock. There was no history of bleeding per vaginum, trauma, surgical procedure or medical illness. Her obstetrical history was marked by a spontaneous second trimester miscarriage at 24 weeks that was followed by fever for 1 week. Ultrasound revealed an extra uterine fetus with sac en caul secondary to uterine rupture. She was resuscitated and taken up for emergency salvage laparotomy. The ragged fundal rent was excised and uterine reconstruction was performed. Histology revealed placenta percreta. The patient had a rapid recovery.
Caecal diverticulitis, an uncommon mimic of appendicitis
Authors: Kroening Helen Louise , Rai Sajal
Published: February 2013

A 35-year-old man presented with a relatively short history of right iliac fossa pain. With an unremarkable medical history, marginally raised inflammatory markers and examination findings suggestive of acute appendicitis, a preliminary diagnosis was made and the patient listed for laparoscopic appendicectomy. However, intraoperatively, the appendix was deemed normal and, following further exploration, appendicectomy and amputation of an obviously inflamed caecal pole were carried out using a TLC 75 linear stapler. Histological analysis also confirmed a diagnosis of caecal diverticulitis. Having undergone minimally invasive surgery without unnecessary radical resection, the patient made a full recovery.
An unusual case of secondary amenorrhoea
Authors: Jain Deepti
Published: February 2013

A 22-year-old married woman presented with complaints of amenorrhoea and masculinisation. She had hoarseness of voice, hirsutism and ambiguous genitalia. Uterus, cervix and vagina were normal. Investigations revealed a high testosterone level, insignificant luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone (LH/FSH) and a raised 17-OH progesterone level. Ultrasonography revealed no ovarian or adrenal mass. A diagnosis of 21-hydroxylase deficient classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia, simple virilising form was considered. She was put on prednisolone and given oral contraceptive pill containing cyproterone acetate. Her testosterone level decreased and spontaneous menstruation started. She desired conception and ovulation was induced with clomiphene citrate. She conceived in the second menstrual cycle on clomiphene 50 mg. Imaging at 6 weeks revealed a viable fetus, and an anomaly scan at 16 weeks showed a healthy fetus. However, unfortunately, she aborted around 21 weeks. A scan immediately prior to abortion revealed a subchorionic haematoma.
Phenocopy or variant: a longitudinal study of very slowly progressive frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Brodtmann Amy , Cowie Tiffany , McLean Catriona , Darby David
Published: February 2013

Frontal variant frontotemporal dementia (fvFTD) can present with a range of social and cognitive impairments. Complicating this clinical picture is a group of non-progressive or ‘phenocopy’ patients. We present a patient and his father with very slowly progressive fvFTD over decades. Stable MRI and positron emission tomography (PET) imaging abnormalities were present in the presenting patient, with serial neuropsychological assessments that showed no significant change over 15 years. His father also had a 20-year history of functional decline, associated with neuropsychological evidence of change. Neuropathological confirmation of the condition of his father became available. This revealed gross bilateral frontal atrophy and spongiosis in the frontal cortical regions with mild neuronal loss and rounded ubiquitinated perinuclear inclusions, consistent with early stage frontotemporal lobar degeneration with ubiquitin by current neuropathological criteria. The phenotype of frontal variant FTD is broad. Many patients present with frontal networks dysfunction. We present evidence that some patients with a very slow clinical progression do have FTD.
Acute respiratory failure following traumatic tooth aspiration
Authors: Madan Karan , Aggarwal Ashutosh Nath , Bhagat Hemant , Singh Navneet
Published: February 2013

Foreign body aspiration can infrequently occur following trauma. Tooth aspiration after trauma is a rare clinical scenario. Here, we report a case in which tooth aspiration after trauma led to a presentation of acute respiratory failure with clinical findings mimicking tension pneumothorax. Successful removal of the aspirated tooth was accomplished by rigid bronchoscopy. Tooth aspiration must be considered in the list of differential diagnosis for any patient having signs or symptoms of respiratory distress following trauma especially maxillofacial trauma.
Pain assessment in animals
Authors: Reid Jacky , Scott Marian , Nolan Andrea , Wiseman‐Orr Lesley
Published: February 2013

Attitudes to pain in animals have changed dramatically over the past two decades, with marked advances in its treatment. However, while the importance of measuring animal pain in a valid and reliable manner has been acknowledged for some time, veterinary scientists have been slow to recognise the important contribution of the psychometric approach to the construction of measurement instruments. Well established in human medicine, psychometric methods, which ensure that the end product is valid, reliable and, where required, responsive to clinical change, are the ‘gold standard’ in instrument design. In addition to discussing the particular challenges veterinary scientists face when designing instruments to measure pain in animals, this article describes the psychometric approach and, using the dog as an example, demonstrates how this approach can be used to produce scientifically robust pain scales for non‐human species.
IS FlowMap, a novel tool to examine blood flow changes induced by flow diverter stent treatment: initial experiences with pipeline cases
Authors: Chien Aichi , Viñuela Fernando
Published: February 2013

Background

Intracranial aneurysm flow diverting stents are a new endovascular treatment option for wide neck and large/giant aneurysms. Since August 2011, our center has integrated flow diverting stents into aneurysm treatment management. To further understand the effects of flow diverting stents, we developed the intracranial stent flow mapping program, which allows detailed, case by case, examination and comparison of blood flow changes within an aneurysm before and after stent treatment.

Methods

The Intracranial Stent Flow Mapping program (IS FlowMap) utilizes algorithms detecting movement changes between consecutive images. Sequences of catheter angiograms capturing the movement of injected contrast were used to map flow patterns and examine aneurysmal flow before and after stent implantation.

Results

A pilot study of this new technique in flow diverter (FD) stent treated aneurysms was performed. Four clinical aneurysms (two wide neck and two giant aneurysms) were analyzed by IS FlowMap. The characteristics of redirected flow in cases treated with one stent or two overlapping stents in the reconstructed vessels are presented. Distinct differences in flow impingement on the aneurysm wall, aneurysmal inflow, and flow circulation before and after FD stent treatment were found.

Conclusions

We present a novel approach to map blood flow motion within aneurysms and have shown the feasibility of the technique in clinical aneurysms. This new technology can help monitor flow changes induced by stents and study the relationship between the modified flow and treatment outcome.
Meningococcal sepsis and purpura fulminans: the surgical perspective
Authors: Morris Marvin E , Maijub John G , Walker Sarah K , Gardner Glenn P , Jones Riley G
Published: February 2013

Meningococcal sepsis and purpura fulminans is a rare but highly lethal disease process that requires a multidisciplinary team of experts to optimise morbidity and mortality outcomes due to the breadth of complications of the disease. The surgical perspective involves the critical care management which utilises all currently available measured outcomes of critical care management as well as experimental therapies. Limb loss is common, and is reflective of the high incidence of compartment syndrome compounded by the significant soft tissue loss secondary to purpura and limb ischaemia, presumptively due to digital microemboli. A multidisciplinary approach involving current standards in critical care and early surgical evaluation are important in improving patient outcomes and limb salvage.
Biological embedding in mental health: An epigenomic perspective
Authors: Sasaki Aya , Vega Wilfred C. de , McGowan Patrick O.
Published: February 2013

Human epidemiological studies and studies of animal models provide many examples by which early life experiences influence health in a long-term manner, a concept known as biological embedding. Such experiences can have profound impacts during periods of high plasticity in prenatal and early postnatal life. Epigenetic mechanisms influence gene function in the absence of changes in gene sequence. In contrast to the relative stability of gene sequences, epigenetic mechanisms appear, at least to some extent, responsive to environmental signals. To date, a few examples appear to clearly link early social experiences to epigenetic changes in pathways relevant for mental health in adulthood. Our recent work using high-throughput epigenomic techniques points to large-scale changes in gene pathways in addition to candidate genes involved in the response to psychosocial stress and neuroplasticity. Elucidation of which pathways are epigenetically labile under what conditions will enable a more complete understanding of how the epigenome can mediate environmental interactions with the genome that are relevant for mental health. In this mini-review, we provide examples of nascent research into the influence of early life experience on mental health outcomes, discuss evidence of epigenetic mechanisms that may underlie these effects, and describe challenges for research in this area.