bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-Wide Analysis of Small RNAs Expressed by Yersinia pestis Identifies a Regulator of the Yop-Ysc Type III Secretion System
Authors: Schiano Chelsea A. , Koo Jovanka T. , Schipma Matthew J. , Caulfield Adam J. , Jafari Nadereh , Lathem Wyndham W.
Published: February 2014

Small noncoding RNA (sRNA) molecules are integral components of the regulatory machinery for many bacterial species and are known to posttranscriptionally regulate metabolic and stress-response pathways, quorum sensing, virulence factors, and more. The Yop-Ysc type III secretion system (T3SS) is a critical virulence component for the pathogenic
Yersinia
species, and the regulation of this system is tightly controlled at each step from transcription to translocation of effectors into host cells. The contribution of sRNAs to the regulation of the T3SS in
Yersinia
has been largely unstudied, however. Previously, our lab identified a role for the sRNA chaperone protein Hfq in the regulation of components of the T3SS in the gastrointestinal pathogen
Yersinia pseudotuberculosis
. Here we present data demonstrating a similar requirement for Hfq in the closely related species
Yersinia pestis
. Through deep sequencing analysis of the
Y. pestis
sRNA-ome, we found 63 previously unidentified putative sRNAs in this species. We identified a
Yersinia
-specific sRNA, Ysr141, carried by the T3SS plasmid pCD1 that is required for the production of multiple T3SS proteins. In addition, we show that Ysr141 targets an untranslated region upstream of
yopJ
to posttranscriptionally activate the synthesis of the YopJ protein. Furthermore, Ysr141 may be an unstable and/or processed sRNA, which could contribute to its function in the regulation of the T3SS. The discovery of an sRNA that influences the synthesis of the T3SS adds an additional layer of regulation to this tightly controlled virulence determinant of
Y. pestis
.
An Innate Immunity-Regulating Virulence Determinant Is Uniquely Encoded within the Andes Virus Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Cimica Velasco , Dalrymple Nadine A. , Roth Eric , Nasonov Aleksandr , Mackow Erich R.
Published: February 2014

Andes virus (ANDV) is the only hantavirus known to spread from person to person and shown to cause highly lethal hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) in patients and Syrian hamsters. Hantaviruses replicate in human endothelial cells and accomplish this by restricting the early induction of beta interferon (IFN-β)- and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Our studies reveal that the ANDV nucleocapsid (N) protein uniquely inhibits IFN signaling responses directed by cytoplasmic double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sensors RIG-I and MDA5. In contrast, N proteins from Sin Nombre, New York-1, and Prospect Hill hantaviruses had no effect on RIG-I/MDA5-directed transcriptional responses from IFN-β-, IFN-stimulated response element (ISRE)-, or κB-containing promoters. Ablating a potential S-segment nonstructural open reading frame (ORF) (NSs) within the ANDV plasmid expressing N protein failed to alter IFN regulation by ANDV N protein. Further analysis demonstrated that expressing the ANDV N protein inhibited downstream IFN pathway activation directed by MAVS, TBK1, and IκB kinase ε (IKKε) but failed to inhibit transcriptional responses directed by constitutive expression of active interferon regulatory factor IRF3-5D or after stimulation by alpha interferon (IFN-α) or tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Consistent with IFN pathway-specific regulation, the ANDV N protein inhibited TBK1-directed IRF3 phosphorylation (phosphorylation of serine 396 [pS396]) and TBK1 autophosphorylation (pS172). Collectively, these findings indicate that the ANDV N inhibits IFN signaling responses by interfering with TBK1 activation, upstream of IRF3 phosphorylation and NF-κB activation. Moreover, our findings reveal that ANDV uniquely carries a gene encoding a virulence determinant within its N protein that is capable of restricting ISG and IFN-β induction and provide a rationale for the novel pathogenesis and spread of ANDV.

IMPORTANCE
Andes virus (ANDV) is distinguished from other hantaviruses by its unique ability to spread from person to person and cause lethal hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS)-like disease in Syrian hamsters. However, virulence determinants that distinguish ANDV from other pathogenic hantaviruses have yet to be defined. Here we reveal that ANDV uniquely contains a virulence determinant within its nucleocapsid (N) protein that potently inhibits innate cellular signaling pathways. This novel function of the N protein provides a new mechanism for hantaviruses to regulate interferon (IFN) and IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) induction that is likely to contribute to the enhanced ability of ANDV to replicate, spread, and cause disease. These findings differentiate ANDV from other HPS-causing hantaviruses and provide a potential target for viral attenuation that needs to be considered in vaccine development.
A man from South Asia presenting with abdominal pain
Authors: Shiratori Beata , Usami Osamu , Hattori Toshio , Ashino Yugo
Published: February 2014

The diagnosis of abdominal tuberculosis (TB) is challenging due to the non-specific clinical presentation and frequent failure to detect the pathogen. A young Bangladeshi man presented to the Emergency Outpatient department with constipation and burning abdominal pain that was localised primarily in the epigastrium. Although the infectious agent was not detected, findings of histological examination were helpful in guiding the treatment strategy. As a good clinical practice, it is important to consider abdominal TB as a possible diagnosis in such cases, particularly when a patient has previously been residing in a high TB burden country. Thus, appropriate diagnosis and early antituberculous therapy are essential for achieving a positive outcome.
Sepsis-induced purpura fulminans caused byPasteurella multocida
Authors: Borges Lisa , Oliveira Nelson , Cássio Isabel , Costa Humberto
Published: February 2014

A 52-year-old man was admitted with a cutaneous rash associated with septic shock and multiorganic failure, 6 days after a dog bite. He was started on empiric antibiotherapy and supportive measures. The patient's condition aggravated, with need for invasive mechanical ventilation and intermittent haemodialysis, and evolution from a petechiae-like rash to purpura and gangrene, culminating in bilateral lower limb amputation. The blood cultures revealed onlyPasteurella multocida, after 10 days of incubation.P multocidainfection is a rare cause of soft tissue infection that subsides with oral antibiotherapy. Infections causing sepsis are rare and appear in immunocompromised patients.Purpura fulminansinduced by sepsis is a rare, life-threatening disorder. This syndrome should be recognised promptly, so early treatment is instituted. We found no case reports ofpurpura fulminanscaused byPasteurellainfections in our literature review.
Abdominal pain and swelling as an initial presentation of spinal tuberculosis
Authors: Elgendy Akram Y , Mahmoud Ahmed , Elgendy Islam Y
Published: February 2014

Spinal tuberculosis (Pott's disease) is one of the common extra-pulmonary presentations of tuberculosis. Spinal tuberculosis commonly presents with back pain, fever and night sweats. In this report, we present a case of spinal tuberculosis complicated by bilateral large psoas abscesses. The patient presented with bilateral flank pain and swellings rather than the classic presentation of back pain. The aim of this report is to draw the attention of physicians to this uncommon presentation of spinal tuberculosis, as an early recognition of such condition may expedite diagnosis and treatment, thereby preventing future complications of the disease.
Digital high-pressure injection injury: the importance of early recognition and treatment
Authors: Sarwar Umran , Javed Muhammad , Rahman Shakeel , Wright Thomas C
Published: February 2014

High-pressure injection (HPI) injuries are an uncommon mechanism of trauma. The clinical effects of the HPI injury depend upon a number of variables including the pressures involved, chemical toxicity, quantity of material injected and its temperature. Evidence within the literature has shown that delay in identifying and treating such injuries can lead to devastating consequences. We describe one such case of a HPI injury involving engine oil to a digit. In addition, we review the clinical course, pathophysiology and management of such injuries.
History of labour market attachment as a determinant of health status: a 12-year follow-up of the Northern Swedish Cohort
Authors: Waenerlund Anna-Karin , Gustafsson Per E , Hammarström Anne , Virtanen Pekka
Published: February 2014

Objective

The present study aims at using trajectory analysis to measure labour market attachment (LMA) over 12 years and at examining whether labour market tracks relate to perceived health status.

Design

Data were retrieved from a 26-year prospective cohort study, the Northern Swedish Cohort.

Setting and participants

All ninth grade students (n=1083) within the municipality of Luleå in northern Sweden were included in the baseline investigation in 1981. The vast majority (94%) of the original cohort participated at the fourth follow-up. In this study, 969 participants were included.

Measures

Perceived health status (psychological distress and non-optimal self-rated health) at age 42 and the data obtained from questionnaires.

Results

We have identified four tracks in relation to LMA across the 12-year period: ‘permanent’, ‘high level’, ‘strengthening’ and ‘poor level’ of attachment. LMA history relates to psychological distress. High level (OR 1.55 (95% CI 1.06 to 2.27)), strengthening (OR 1.95 (95% CI 1.29 to 2.93)) and poor attachment (OR 3.14 (95% CI 2.10 to 4.70) involve higher OR for psychological distress compared with permanent attachment. The overall p value remained significant in the final model (p=0.001). Analyses regarding non-optimal self-rated health displayed a similar pattern but this was not significant in the final model.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that health status in mid-life, particularly psychological distress, is related to patterns of LMA history, to a large part independently of other social risk factors and previous health. Consideration of heterogeneity and time in LMA might be important when analysing associations with perceived health.
“It can't be very important because it comes and goes”—patients' accounts of intermittent symptoms preceding a pancreatic cancer diagnosis: a qualitative study
Authors: Evans Julie , Chapple Alison , Salisbury Helen , Corrie Pippa , Ziebland Sue
Published: February 2014

Objective

This article explores how people with pancreatic cancer interpreted prediagnostic signs and symptoms, and what triggered them to seek medical help for symptoms that occurred intermittently.

Design

Thematic analysis of prediagnostic symptom descriptions drawn from a qualitative interview study of people with experiences of pancreatic cancer.

Participants

40 people affected by pancreatic cancer (32 patients and 8 relatives of people who had died). Age at interview ranged from 35 to 84 years; 55% were men; and 57.5% of patients had been offered potentially curative surgery.

Setting

Respondents interviewed at home were recruited from different parts of the UK during 2009/2010.

Results

Analysis of the interviews suggested thatintermittentsymptoms were not uncommon in the months, or even years, before diagnosis but that the fact that the symptom did not persist was often taken by the patient as a reassuring indicator that it could not be ‘very important’. Such symptoms were rarely acted upon until a pattern became apparent, the frequency of symptom episodes increased, there was a change in the nature of the intermittent symptoms or additional symptom(s) appeared. These findings build on social science theories of consultation behaviour.

Conclusions

Our study—the largest reported collection of qualitative interviews with people with pancreatic cancer—reports for the first time that symptoms of an intermittent nature may precede a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. Patients (and potentially their doctors as well) may be falsely reassured by symptoms that come and go. Pancreatic cancer might be identified at a stage where curative treatment is more likely if there were greater awareness that intermittent gastrointestinal symptoms can have a serious cause, and if patients with intermittent pancreatitis-like symptoms were investigated more readily.
Factors associated with domestic violence: a cross-sectional survey among women in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Fageeh Wafa M K
Published: February 2014

Objective

This study aims to identify the factors associated with domestic violence (DV) among women in Jeddah.

Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting

Outpatient departments of three tertiary hospitals in Jeddah.

Participants

Convenience sample of women, aged 15–70 years, at the outpatient and inpatient clinics.

Interventions

Between 15 December 2011 and 30 May 2012, a psychologist and a professional health assistant explained the purpose of the research to participants, who were then asked to fill a 50-item questionnaire. The questionnaire was created based on questions from three questionnaires: the NorVold Domestic Abuse Questionnaire, the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System and the Kansas Marital Satisfaction Scale. The questionnaire was used to assess the association between DV and family status, male partner attitudes, age, educational attainment, employment, financial and socioeconomic status.

Results

A total of 2301 women participated in the survey (81% response rate). The mean±SD age of the participants was 34.4±10.9 years. The lifetime prevalence of DV was 34%. Abused women had more children than non-abused women (p=0.001), and their spouses were significantly older than those of non-abused women (p<0.0001). Financially dependent women and those with a high educational status were significantly more likely to report abuse (p=0.003 and p<0.001, respectively). Abused women were also likely to report that their spouse was a smoker (p<0.0001) and had completed at least primary or secondary education (p<0.0001). A significantly lower proportion of abused women reported that their male partners were alcohol users (p=0.001). The results of logistic regression showed that women who were financially dependent had about 1.5-fold odds of being physically abused by a spouse.

Conclusions

Many factors are associated with DV against women, thereby highlighting the need to design effective DV prevention programmes.
Waterpipe dependence in university students and effect of normative beliefs: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Salameh P , Salamé J , Waked M , Barbour B , Zeidan N , Baldi I
Published: February 2014

Objectives

The objective of this study was to measure the correlates, including normative beliefs, associated with waterpipe (WP) and cigarette smoking prevalence and dependence.

Setting

A cross-sectional study was carried out using a proportionate cluster sample of Lebanese students in 17 public and private universities.

Participants

Of the 4900 distributed questionnaires, 3384 (69.1%) were returned to the field worker. All available students during break times were approached, with no exclusion criteria.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

sociodemographic variables, detailed active and passive smoking, in addition to items of the tobacco dependence scales were all evaluated.

Results

Correlates to WP smoking were studying in a private university (adjusted OR, aOR=1.50 (1.26 to 1.79); p<0.001) and ever smoking cigarettes (aOR=1.80(1.44 to 2.26); p<0.001); friends’ and societal influence were found on smoking behaviour and dependence. Although the role of parents was not visible in decreasing the risk of smoking WP, their protective influence seemed more important on WP dependence (β=−1.09(−1.79 to −0.28); p<0.001), a behaviour that is considered more deleterious for health. Parents’ and friends’ disagreement with smoking had a protective effect on cigarette smoking and dependence (aOR<1; p<0.01), while thinking that idols and successful people smoke increased the risk of both cigarette smoking and dependence (aOR>1; p<0.01).

Conclusions

In conclusion, WP smoking and dependence are influenced by parents’ and friends’ opinions, and idols’ smoking status. Future research is necessary to further improve our understanding of motives for WP smoking and dependence.
The use of supplementary immunisation activities to improve uptake of current and future vaccines in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Kagina Benjamin M , Wiysonge Charles S , Machingaidze Shingai , Abdullahi Leila H , Adebayo Esther , Uthman Olalekan A , Hussey Gregory D
Published: February 2014

Introduction

Immunisation coverage data in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) suggest that more strategies need to be implemented to achieve and sustain optimal vaccine uptake. Among possible strategies to improve immunisation coverage are supplementary immunisation activities (SIAs). We are therefore interested in conducting a systematic review to assess whether SIAs complement routine immunisation programmes to improve vaccination coverage and prevent disease outbreaks.

Methods

Our systematic review will focus on studies conducted in LMICs. With the help of an information specialist, we will search for eligible studies in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Africa-Wide, Cochrane Library, WHOLIS, CINAHL, PDQ-Evidence as well as reference lists of relevant publications. Additionally, we will contact relevant organisations such as WHO and GAVI. Two authors will independently extract data from eligible studies and independently assess risk of bias by assessing the adequacy of study characteristics. The primary meta-analysis will use random effects models due to expected interstudies heterogeneity. Dichotomous data will be analysed using relative risk and continuous data using weighted mean differences (or standardised mean differences), both with 95% CIs.

Discussion

The findings from this systematic review will be discussed in the context of strengthening routine childhood immunisation services, routine adolescent immunisation services and introduction of future vaccines against tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.

Study strengths

Unbiased selection of many studies conducted in different settings. This will strengthen the validity of the review results.

Study limitations

Heterogeneity of the study settings of the low-income, lower-middle-income and upper-middle-income countries as well as heterogeneity in study designs.
Inequalities in the care experiences of patients with cancer: analysis of data from the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2011–2012
Authors: Bone Anna , Mc Grath-Lone Louise , Day Sophie , Ward Helen
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To explore inequalities in the care experiences of care by patients clinical or trust-level factors for patients with cancer.

Design

Secondary analysis of data from the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2011–2012.

Setting and participants

Adult patients with a primary diagnosis of cancer who attended an acute or specialist National Health Service (NHS) trust in England.

Outcome measure

OR of a patient rating their overall care positively, adjusting for other patient, clinical and trust-level factors.

Methods

Using cross-sectional data from 71 793 patients with cancer who completed the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2011–2012, we examined associations between patient, clinical and trust-level factors and a summary measure of patient experience, namely overall rating of care. Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate variation by sociodemographic characteristics adjusting for other patient, clinical and trust-level factors.

Results

Female, non-white and younger patients were less likely to rate their overall care as excellent or very good. Patients with long-standing conditions, particularly those with learning disabilities or mental health conditions, also reported poorer overall care. This variation persisted when other patient, clinical and trust-level factors were controlled for, indicating that there are real differences in experiences among patients with cancer by sociodemographic characteristics.

Conclusions

There is evidence of inequalities in the experiences of patients with cancer in the UK by sociodemographic characteristics such as gender, age, ethnicity and disability. Quality cancer care services must strive to meet the needs of a diverse patient population equally; this study identifies patient groups for whom it appears cancer care services are in greatest need of improvement.
Epidemiology of injuries in elite taekwondo athletes: two Olympic periods cross-sectional retrospective study
Authors: Altarriba-Bartes Albert , Drobnic Franchek , Til Lluís , Malliaropoulos Nikolaos , Montoro José Bruno , Irurtia Alfredo
Published: February 2014

Objective

Taekwondo injuries differ according to the characteristics of the athletes and the competition. This analytical cross-sectional retrospective cohort study aimed to describe reported taekwondo injuries and to determine the prevalence, characteristics and possible risk factors for injuries sustained by athletes of the Spanish national team. In addition, we compared each identified risk factor—age, weight category, annual quarter, injury timing and competition difficulty level—with its relation to injury location and type.

Settings

Injury occurrences in taekwondo athletes of the Spanish national team during two Olympic periods at the High Performance Centre in Barcelona were analysed.

Participants

48 taekwondo athletes (22 male, 26 female; age range 15–31 years) were studied; 1678 injury episodes occurred. Inclusion criteria were: (1) having trained with the national taekwondo group for a minimum of one sports season; (2) being a member of the Spanish national team.

Results

Independently of sex or Olympic period, the anatomical sites with most injury episodes were knee (21.3%), foot (17.0%), ankle (12.2%), thigh (11.4%) and lower leg (8.8%). Contusions (29.3%) and cartilage (17.6%) and joint (15.7%) injuries were the prevalent types of injury. Chronological age, weight category and annual quarter can be considered risk factors for sustaining injuries in male and female elite taekwondists according to their location and type (p≤0.001).

Conclusions

This study provides epidemiological information that will help to inform future injury surveillance studies and the development of prevention strategies and recommendations to reduce the number of injuries in taekwondo competition.
Major bleeding after percutaneous coronary intervention and risk of subsequent mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kwok Chun Shing , Rao Sunil V , Myint Phyo K , Keavney Bernard , Nolan James , Ludman Peter F , Belder Mark A de , Loke Yoon K , Mamas Mamas A
Published: February 2014

Objectives

To examine the relationship between periprocedural bleeding complications and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and mortality outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and study differences in the prognostic impact of different bleeding definitions.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of PCI studies that evaluated periprocedural bleeding complications and their impact on MACEs and mortality outcomes. A systematic search of MEDLINE and EMBASE was conducted to identify relevant studies. Data from relevant studies were extracted and random effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the risk of adverse outcomes with periprocedural bleeding. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed by considering the I2statistic.

Results

42 relevant studies were identified including 533 333 patients. Meta-analysis demonstrated that periprocedural major bleeding complications was independently associated with increased risk of mortality (OR 3.31 (2.86 to 3.82), I2=80%) and MACEs (OR 3.89 (3.26 to 4.64), I2=42%). A differential impact of major bleeding as defined by different bleeding definitions on mortality outcomes was observed, in which the REPLACE-2 (OR 6.69, 95% CI 2.26 to 19.81), STEEPLE (OR 6.59, 95% CI 3.89 to 11.16) and BARC (OR 5.40, 95% CI 1.74 to 16.74) had the worst prognostic impacts while HORIZONS-AMI (OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.11 to 2.05) had the least impact on mortality outcomes.

Conclusions

Major bleeding after PCI is independently associated with a threefold increase in mortality and MACEs outcomes. Different contemporary bleeding definitions have differential impacts on mortality outcomes, with 1.5–6.7-fold increases in mortality observed depending on the definition of major bleeding used.
Molecular routes to Cu2ZnSnS4: A comparison of approaches to bulk and thin-film materials
Authors: Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Molloy Kieran C. , Sudlow Anna L.
Published: February 2014

A range of xanthates (R′3P)2CuS2COR [R′ = Ph, R = Et (1), i-Pr (2), t-Bu (3), t-Amyl (4); R′ = PhO, R = Et (5), R′ = n-Bu, R = Et (6), Bun (7)], M(S2COR)2 [M = Sn R = Et (8); Zn, R = Et (10), i-Pr (11), n-Pr (12), n-Bu (13), n-Hex (14)], Sn(S2COEt)4 (9), Zn(S2COEt)2.TMEDA (15) have been synthesised and their thermal decomposition profiles delineated by TGA. A parallel range of dithiocarbamates (R′3P)2CuS2CN(Me)R [R′ = Ph, R = Bun (16), Bz (17)], M[S2CN(Me)R]2 [M = Sn, R = Bun (18), Bz (19); M = Zn, R = Bun (21), Bz (22)] has been similarly assessed. Although precursor combinations have been found from these systems that generate Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) from either a bulk decomposition (1, 8, 10 at 400 °C/Ar; Cu2Zn1.02Sn0.74S4.6), from a doctor-bladed film (7, 8, 13 at 400 °C/Ar; Cu2Zn1.2Sn1.0S3.6), and as nanoparticles (7, 8, 13 in octadecane/oleic acid, 150 °C; Cu2Zn1.0Sn0.7S2.6), attempts to deposit CZTS by aerosol-assisted CVD has proved more challenging and only successful from the dithiocarbamates 16, 18, 21 (350 °C; Cu2Zn0.9Sn0.7). As part of this work the crystal structures of 2–5, 8, 16, and the dithiocarbamate decomposition product {Sn[S2CN(Me)Bun)]2S}2 (20) have been determined.
Seismic performance of shear wall buildings with gravity-induced lateral demands
Authors: Dupuis Michael R. , Best Tyler D.D. , Elwood Kenneth J. , Anderson Donald L.
Published: February 2014

Architectural features and other irregularities in the gravity system which apply gravity-induced lateral demands to the seismic force resisting system are being incorporated in new buildings. These gravity-induced demands have raised concerns due to the perceived potential for a ratcheting effect to occur during seismic loading. This paper summarizes the results of a study to identify if there are behavioral trends not recognized within the scope of current building codes. To this end, a nonlinear, parametric study was conducted in OpenSees to investigate the inelastic response of concrete shear wall buildings with a range of design characteristics, including gravity-induced lateral demands. The results demonstrated that a seismic ratcheting effect can develop and amplify inelastic displacement demands. The effect is significantly more prevalent in coupled shear walls compared with cantilevered shear walls. An irregularity class to address buildings with gravity-induced lateral demands on the seismic force resisting system is proposed for the 2015 National Building Code of Canada.
Southern bluefin tuna (Thunnus maccoyii) shed tags at a higher rate in tuna farms than in the open ocean — two-stage tag retention models
Authors: Chambers Mark S. , Sidhu Leesa A. , O’Neill Ben
Published: February 2014

Tag shedding rates are estimated for southern bluefin tuna (SBT, Thunnus maccoyii) from double-tagging data arising from two tagging studies run in the 1990s and 2000s. Since the early 1990s, a high proportion of SBT tag recoveries has been sourced from juveniles captured by purse seine vessels in the Great Australian Bight and transferred to tuna farms off Port Lincoln in the state of South Australia. When tags have been shed by wild-caught SBT fattened in tuna farms, it is generally not known if the tags were shed in the open ocean before purse seine capture or after purse seine capture while the fish were on farm. Using a Bayesian approach, we fit separate tag retention curves for time in the ocean and time on farms as Weibull distribution reliability functions. The study suggests SBT shed tags at a much higher rate in on-farm enclosures than in the open ocean. Biofouling on tags in tuna farms may contribute to higher tag shedding rates.
Osteopontin stimulates apoptosis in adult cardiac myocytes via the involvement of CD44 receptors, mitochondrial death pathway, and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Dalal Suman , Zha Qinqin , Daniels Christopher R. , Steagall Rebecca J. , Joyner William L. , Gadeau Alain-Pierre , Singh Mahipal , Singh Krishna
Published: February 2014

Increased osteopontin (OPN) expression associates with increased myocyte apoptosis and myocardial dysfunction. The objective of this study was to identify the receptor for OPN and get insight into the mechanism by which OPN induces cardiac myocyte apoptosis. Adult rat ventricular myocytes (ARVMs) and transgenic mice expressing OPN in a myocyte-specific manner were used for in vitro and in vivo studies. Treatment with purified OPN (20 nM) protein or adenoviral-mediated OPN expression induced apoptosis in ARVMs. OPN co-immunoprecipitated with CD44 receptors, not with β1 or β3 integrins. Proximity ligation assay confirmed interaction of OPN with CD44 receptors. Neutralizing anti-CD44 antibodies inhibited OPN-stimulated apoptosis. OPN activated JNKs and increased expression of Bax and levels of cytosolic cytochrome c, suggesting involvement of mitochondrial death pathway. OPN increased endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, as evidenced by increased expression of Gadd153 and activation of caspase-12. Inhibition of JNKs using SP600125 or ER stress using salubrinal or caspase-12 inhibitor significantly reduced OPN-stimulated apoptosis. Expression of OPN in adult mouse heart in myocyte-specific manner associated with decreased left ventricular function and increased myocyte apoptosis. In the heart, OPN expression increased JNKs and caspase-12 activities, and expression of Bax and Gadd153. Thus, OPN, acting via CD44 receptors, induces apoptosis in myocytes via the involvement of mitochondrial death pathway and ER stress.
Effects of continuous triiodothyronine infusion on the tricarboxylic acid cycle in the normal immature swine heart under extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in vivo
Authors: Kajimoto Masaki , O'Kelly Priddy Colleen M. , Ledee Dolena R. , Xu Chun , Isern Nancy , Olson Aaron K. , Portman Michael A.
Published: February 2014

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is frequently used in infants with postoperative cardiopulmonary failure. ECMO also suppresses circulating triiodothyronine (T3) levels and modifies myocardial metabolism. We assessed the hypothesis that T3supplementation reverses ECMO-induced metabolic abnormalities in the immature heart. Twenty-two male Yorkshire pigs (age: 25–38 days) with ECMO received [2-13C]lactate, [2,4,6,8-13C4]octanoate (medium-chain fatty acid), and [U-13C]long-chain fatty acids as metabolic tracers either systemically (totally physiological intracoronary concentration) or directly into the coronary artery (high substrate concentration) for the last 60 min of each protocol. NMR analysis of left ventricular tissue determined the fractional contribution of these substrates to the tricarboxylic acid cycle. Fifty percent of the pigs in each group received intravenous T3supplement (bolus at 0.6 μg/kg and then continuous infusion at 0.2 μg·kg−1·h−1) during ECMO. Under both substrate loading conditions, T3significantly increased the fractional contribution of lactate with a marginal increase in the fractional contribution of octanoate. Both T3and high substrate provision increased the myocardial energy status, as indexed by phosphocreatine concentration/ATP concentration. In conclusion, T3supplementation promoted lactate metabolism to the tricarboxylic acid cycle during ECMO, suggesting that T3releases the inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase. Manipulation of substrate utilization by T3may be used therapeutically during ECMO to improve the resting energy state and facilitate weaning.
Lung endothelial barrier disruption in Lyl1-deficient mice
Authors: Pirot Nelly , Delpech Hélène , Deleuze Virginie , Dohet Christiane , Courtade-Saïdi Monique , Basset-Léobon Céline , Chalhoub Elias , Mathieu Danièle , Pinet Valérie
Published: February 2014

Maturation of newly formed vessels is a multistep phenomenon during which functional endothelial barriers are established. Disruption of vessel integrity is an important feature in many physiological and pathological processes. We previously reported that lymphoblastic leukemia-derived sequence 1 (LYL1) is required for the late stages of postnatal angiogenesis to limit the formation of new blood vessels, notably by regulating the activity of the small GTPase Rap1. In this study, we show that LYL1 is also required during the formation of the mature endothelial barrier in the lungs of adult mice. Specifically, LYL1 knockdown in human endothelial cells downregulated the expression of ARHGAP21 and ARHGAP24, which encode two Rho GTPase-activating proteins, and this was correlated with increased RhoA activity and reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton into stress fibers. Importantly, in lungs of Lyl1-deficient mice, both vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin and p120-catenin were poorly recruited to endothelial adherens junctions, indicative of defective cell-cell junctions. Consistent with this, higher Evans blue dye extravasation, edema, and leukocyte infiltration in the lung parenchyma of Lyl1−/− mice than in wild-type littermates confirmed that lung vascular permeability is constitutively elevated in Lyl1−/− adult mice. Our data show that LYL1 acts as a stabilizing signal for adherens junction formation by operating upstream of VE-cadherin and of the two GTPases Rap1 and RhoA. As increased vascular permeability is a key feature and a major mechanism of acute respiratory distress syndrome, molecules that regulate LYL1 activity could represent additional tools to modify the endothelial barrier permeability.
Development of a Stair-Step Multifrequency Synchronized Excitation Signal for Fast Bioimpedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Yuxiang , Bian He , Du Fangling , Sun Qiang , Wen He
Published: February 2014

Wideband excitation signal with finite prominent harmonic components is desirable for fast bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) measurements. This work introduces a simple method to synthesize and realize a type of periodical stair-step multifrequency synchronized (MFS) signal. The Fourier series analysis shows that thep-order MFS signalf(p,t)has constant 81.06% energy distributed equally on itsp  2nth primary harmonics. The synthesis principle is described firstly and then two examples of the 4-order and 5-order MFS signals,f(4,t)andf(5,t), are synthesized. The method to implement the MFS waveform based on a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) and a digital to analog converter (DAC) is also presented. Both the number and the frequencies of the expected primary harmonics can be adjusted as needed. An impedance measurement experiment on a RC three-element equivalent model is performed, and results show acceptable precision, which validates the feasibility of the MFS excitation.
Prophylactic Role ofAverrhoa carambola(Star Fruit) Extract against Chemically Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Swiss Albino Mice
Authors: Singh Ritu , Sharma Jyoti , Goyal P. K.
Published: February 2014

Liver cancer remains one of the severe lethal malignancies worldwide and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common form. The current study was designed to evaluate the prophylactic role of the fruit ofAverrhoa carambola(star fruit or Kamrak) on diethylnitrosamine- (DENA-) induced (15 mg/kg b.wt.; single i.p. injection) and CCl4-promoted (1.6 g/kg b.wt. in corn oil thrice a week for 24 weeks) liver cancer in Swiss albino mice. Administration of ACE was made orally at a dose of 25 mg/kg b.wt/day for 5 consecutive days and it was withdrawn 48 hrs before the first administration of DENA (preinitiational stage). CCl4was given after 2 weeks of DENA administration. A cent percent tumor incidence was noted in carcinogen treated animals while ACE administration resulted in a considerable reduction in tumor incidence, tumor yield, and tumor burden. Further, ACE treatment brings out a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation (P<0.001) along with an elevation in the activities of enzymatic antioxidants (superoxide dismutase,P<0.001, and catalase,P<0.001), nonenzymatic antioxidant (reduced glutathione,P<0.001), and total proteins (P<0.001) when compared to the carcinogen treated control. These results demonstrate that ACE prevents the DENA/CCl4induced adverse physical and biochemical alterations during hepatic carcinogenesis in mice. This study suggests the prophylactic role ofAverrhoa carambolaagainst hepatocellular carcinoma in mice; therefore, it could be employed for the further screening as a good chemopreventive natural supplement against cancer.
Impact of Environmental Changes on Migratory Bird Survival
Authors: Stöcker-Segre Sabine , Weihs Daniel
Published: February 2014

We present a mathematical model that studies and simulates the interconnection between energetic and ecological aspects of bird migration. By comparing model predictions with experimental data, we show that it can be used to assess the impact of changing environmental conditions in breeding, wintering, and stop-over sites on migratory success. We relate in particular to the European white stork (Ciconia ciconia) and its Eastern migration route and discuss questions concerning the timing, stopover, and feeding behavior en route. Opinions concerning the importance of resource availability and resource quality en route are divided. Whereas some studies have shown that storks gain weight in the wintering site, but almost do not feed en route, others stress the importance of the quality of stop-over locations. We address these questions and simulate the development of stork populations for changing environmental conditions. We demonstrate that resource availability and competition for breeding sites are crucial factors determining the timing of spring migration and the length of stop-over periods. Analyzing the robustness of migration strategies with respect to changing environmental conditions, we show that birds will shorten their stay in stop-over places of poor resource availability rather than prolonging it in the attempt to gain time for accumulating fat reserves.
The Ordered Clustered Travelling Salesman Problem: A Hybrid Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Ahmed Zakir Hussain
Published: February 2014

The ordered clustered travelling salesman problem is a variation of the usual travelling salesman problem in which a set of vertices (except the starting vertex) of the network is divided into some prespecified clusters. The objective is to find the least cost Hamiltonian tour in which vertices of any cluster are visited contiguously and the clusters are visited in the prespecified order. The problem is NP-hard, and it arises in practical transportation and sequencing problems. This paper develops a hybrid genetic algorithm using sequential constructive crossover, 2-opt search, and a local search for obtaining heuristic solution to the problem. The efficiency of the algorithm has been examined against two existing algorithms for some asymmetric and symmetric TSPLIB instances of various sizes. The computational results show that the proposed algorithm is very effective in terms of solution quality and computational time. Finally, we present solution to some more symmetric TSPLIB instances.
A 2.4 GHz Cross Rhombic Antenna for a Cube Satellite Application
Authors: Sosa-Pedroza Jorge , Peña Ruiz Sergio , Martínez-Zúñiga Fabiola
Published: February 2014

We present design and construction results of a 2.4 Ghz cross rhombic antenna to be used in a cubesat. Computational design agrees with experimental results after its construction. cross rhombic antenna is a novel planar structure of our own design, presenting circular polarization and medium gain; it is built over a RF60A substrate withεr=6.15, decreasing its size to fit the required dimensions of satellite. A special characteristic of this design is the enhancing of operational bandwidth using a technique we have been studying, related to softening the structures with sharp edges. Results show applicability and success of our technique.
Intestinal Lymphatic Delivery of Praziquantel by Solid Lipid Nanoparticles: Formulation Design,In VitroandIn VivoStudies
Authors: Mishra Amit , Vuddanda Parameswara Rao , Singh Sanjay
Published: February 2014

The aim of the present work was to design and develop Praziquantal (PZQ) loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (PZQ-SLN) to improve the oral bioavailability by targeting intestinal lymphatic system. PZQ is practically insoluble in water and exhibits extensive hepatic first-pass metabolism. PZQ SLN were composed of triglycerides, lecithin and various aqueous surfactants; were optimized using hot homogenization followed by ultrasonication method. The optimized SLN had particle size of123±3.41 nm, EE of86.6±5.72%. The drug release of PZQ-SLN showed initial burst release followed by the sustained release. Inspite of zeta potential being around −10 mV, the optimized SLN were stable at storage conditions (5±3°C and25±2°C/60±5% RH) for six months. TEM study confirmed the almost spherical shape similar to the control formulations. Solid state characterization using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) and powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis confirmed the homogeneous distribution of PZQ within the lipid matrix. The 5.81-fold increase inAUC0→∞, after intraduodenal administration of PZQ-SLN in rats treated with saline in comparison to rats treated with cycloheximide (a blocker of intestinal lymphatic pathway), confirmed its intestinal lymphatic delivery. The experimental results indicate that SLN may offer a promising strategy for improving the therapeutic efficacy and reducing the dose.
Helminth Infection Increases the Probability of Indeterminate QuantiFERON Gold in Tube Results in Pregnant Women
Authors: Gebreegziabiher Dawit , Desta Kassu , Howe Rawleigh , Abebe Markos
Published: February 2014

Background.Approximately one-third of the world population is infected withM. tuberculosisand helminths (Kariminia et al. (2009), Walson et al. (2010)). Pregnancy and Helminth infection are known to suppress theTH1response (Kariminia et al. (2009), Elias et al. (2006)) on which the QuantiFERON Gold in Tube (QFT-GIT) assay, that measures the released IFN-γuponin vitrostimulation with mycobacterial antigens, relies on (Thomas et al. (2010)).Objective.To determine whether QFT-GIT indeterminate result is significantly associated with helminth infection or not.Methods.In this cross-sectional study, eighty-five pregnant mothers were screened for parasitic and LTBI using Kato-Katz and QFT-GIT test-respectively,Result.The prevalence of helminth infection in pregnant mothers was 23 (27%) of this 17 (20%) was due toSchistosoma mansoni. Among the total of 85 study participants 26.8% were QFT-GIT positive and 14 (17%) had indeterminate results. Three samples (21.4%) were randomly selected from the indeterminate QFT-GIT results and retested to check the reproducibility of the assay and remained indeterminate. QFT-GIT indeterminate result showed significant association with helminth infection.Conclusion.Helminth infections were significantly associated with indeterminate QFT-GIT results in pregnant mothers. Therefore further study is important to evaluate the possible effect of helminth infection by excluding the effect of pregnancy, as pregnancy also downregulates cellular immunity.
Level and Determinants of Knowledge of Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis among Railway Workers in Malaysia
Authors: Ganasegeran Kurubaran , Menke J. Michael , Challakere Ramaswamy Vasudeva Murthy , Abdul Manaf Rizal , Alabsi Aied M. , Al-Dubai Sami Abdo Radman
Published: February 2014

Background. Symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, an ancient malady greatly impairing modern population quality of life, has stimulated global attention to find effective modes of prevention and intervention.Purpose. This study aimed to assess factors affecting knowledge of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (knee OA) among Malaysian railway workers.Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 513 railway workers involving eight major states within Peninsular Malaysia using population-based sampling. The assessment instrument was a face-validated, prepiloted, self-administered instrument with sociodemographics and knowledge items on knee OA.Results. Mean (±SD) age of the respondents was 41.4 (±10.7), with the majority aged 50 years or older (34.9%). Of the total respondents, 53.6% had low levels of knowledge of knee OA disease. Multivariate analysis found that four demographic predictors, age ≥50 years, family history of knee OA, self-awareness, and clinical diagnosis of the disease entity, were significantly associated with knowledge scores.Conclusion. The finding of a low level knee OA knowledge among Malaysian railway workers points to an urgent need for massive information to be disseminated among the workers at risk to foster primary prevention and self-care.
Common Fixed Point of (ψ, β)-Generalized Contractive Mappings in Partially Ordered Metric Spaces
Authors: Abbas M. , Zulfaqar I. , Radenović Stojan
Published: February 2014

Gordji et al. (2012) gave a generalization of Geraghty’s theorem. The aim of
this paper is to study the necessary conditions for the existence of coincidence and common fixed point of four mappings satisfying (ψ, β)-generalized contractive condition in the setup of partial ordered metric spaces. Some examples are given to validate the definitions and results presented herein.
Whole Ovine Ovaries as a Model for Human: Perfusion with CryoprotectantsIn VivoandIn Vitro
Authors: Isachenko Vladimir , Rahimi Gohar , Dattena Maria , Mallmann Peter , Baikoshkarova Saltanat , Kellerwessel Elisabeth , Otarbaev Marat , Shalakhmetova Tamara , Isachenko Evgenia
Published: February 2014

These experiments were performed to test the perfusion of ovine as a model for human ovaries by cryoprotectantsin vivoat high temperature when the permeability of capillaries is high and when blood is insensibly replaced by the solution of cryoprotectants. By our hypothetical supposition, ovaries could be saturated by cryoprotectants before their surgical removal. The objective was to examine the effectiveness of perfusion of ovine ovaries with vascular pediclein vivoandin vitro.Arteria ovaricawas cannuled and ovaries were perfused by Leibovitz L-15 medium + 100 IU/mL heparin + 5% bovine calf serum + 6% dimethyl sulfoxide + 6% ethylene glycol + 0.15 M sucrose + Indian inkin vivoandin vitro. In the first and second cycle of experiments, ovaries (n=13andn=23) were perfusedin vivoandin vitro, respectively, during 60 min with the rate of perfusion 50 mL/h (0.8 mL/min). It was established within vivoperfusion that only about 10% of ovarian tissues were perfused due to an appearance of multiple anastomoses when the perfusion medium goes fromarteria ovaricatoarteria uterinawithout inflow into the ovaries. It was concluded thatin vitroperfusion of ovine intact ovaries with vascular pedicle by freezing medium is more effective than this manipulation performedin vivo.