bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Italian midwives' experiences of late termination of pregnancy. A phenomenological–hermeneutic study
Authors: Mauri Paola Agnese , Ceriotti Elisabetta , Soldi Marta , Guerrini Contini Norma Nilde
Published: November 2014

In this phenomenological–hermeneutic study, we explored how midwives perceive the burden of care, while assisting termination of pregnancy after 16 weeks' gestation. Between February and April 2013, 17 Italian midwives from three different units were interviewed. Data were collected using semistructured interviews. Four themes emerged from the interviews: influences, supports, empathy, and emotions. At the end of the study, researchers observed that midwives assert conscientious objection to the termination of pregnancy, which does not influence their experiences and memories. The midwives felt that it was important to share experiences with colleagues, discussing cases together and with the rest of the team. The midwives also suggested some strategies to improve this type of care: organize shifts in a way that could lead to improved and personalized care for women, continuous development, involvement of relatives, and special measures for these women's rooms. Moreover, they considered help from other professionals as fundamental in order to manage the clinical and emotional complexities related to these terminations.
Pilot study of Biomarkers for predicting effectiveness of ramosetron in diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome: expression of S100A10 and polymorphisms of TPH1
Authors: Shiotani A. , Kusunoki H. , Ishii M. , Imamura H. , Manabe N. , Kamada T. , Hata J. , Merchant J. L. , Haruma K.
Published: November 2014

Background

Serotonin type 3 receptor (5‐HT3R) antagonists are potentially useful therapeutic agents for diarrhea‐predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS‐D). To identify biomarkers predicting effectiveness of the 5‐HT3R antagonist (ramosetron) in IBS‐D.

Methods

Irritable bowel syndrome‐D Japanese subjects received 2.5 or 5 μg of ramosetron once daily for 4 weeks. Colonic mucosal S100A and tryptophan hydroxylase (TPH) mRNA expression levels were measured before treatment. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood and polymorphisms of TPH1 and TPH2 were analyzed.

Key Results

Forty‐two patients (27 men and 15 women, mean age 42 years) with IBS‐D were included for analysis. Improvement of IBS symptoms was seen in 26 (61.9%). Baseline S100A10 (p = 0.02) and TPH1 (p = 0.02) expression were significantly higher in the ramosetron responders than in the non‐responders. The frequencies of the TPH1 rs4537731G allele in linkage disequilibrium with the TPH1 rs7130929 T allele (11.5% vs 50%, p = 0.003; OR: 12; 95% CI: 2.1–69) along with TPH1 rs211105 C allele (3.8% vs 43.8%, p = 0.0003; OR: 19; 95% CI: 2.1–181) were significantly lower in the responders than in the non‐responders. The mean scores of diarrhea at baseline were significantly higher (5.2 vs 3.7, p = 0.005) in patients with TPH1 rs211105 T/T than those with the G allele.

Conclusions & Inferences

TPH1 gene polymorphisms and S100A10 expression, which correlate with 5‐HT signaling were associated with ramosetron effectiveness in IBS‐D, and may possibly lead to prospective identification of the resistance to treatment.
The potential role of behavioral therapies in the management of centrally mediated abdominal pain
Authors: Keefer L. , Mandal S.
Published: November 2014

Background

Chronic abdominal pain carries a substantial health care burden but little is known about best practices for it management across ambulatory, hospital, and emergency room settings. This is especially true when abdominal pain presents in the absence of peripheral triggers like tissue injury (e.g. appendicitis) or altered bowel movements (e.g. IBS). Unfortunately, once central sensitization has occurred, pain can present wiithout any stimulation or with minimal peripheral stimulation (feeling of clothing on the area) to the abdominal region. Several studies have proven the superior efficacy of behavioral interventions on many centrally mediated pain conditions including headaches and musculoskeletal problems. However, behavioral treatment of centrally mediated abdominal pain is less investigated due to the complexity of the patients involved and the poor understanding of the factors which either initiate or maintain persistent GI pain.

Purpose

We examine the evidence for a range of psychological and behavioral interventions in the context of centrally mediated abdominal pain. In addition to a strong rationale for a behavioral approach tied to the fear avoidance model of pain, we describe the structure, therapeutic targets, current evidence and relevance for each class of behavioral interventions.
Genetics of familial melanoma: 20 years after CDKN2A
Authors: Aoude Lauren G. , Wadt Karin A. W. , Pritchard Antonia L. , Hayward Nicholas K.
Published: November 2014

Twenty years ago, the first familial melanoma susceptibility gene, CDKN2A, was identified. Two years later, another high‐penetrance gene, CDK4, was found to be responsible for melanoma development in some families. Progress in identifying new familial melanoma genes was subsequently slow; however, with the advent of next‐generation sequencing, a small number of new high‐penetrance genes have recently been uncovered. This approach has identified the lineage‐specific oncogene MITF as a susceptibility gene both in melanoma families and in the general population, as well as the discovery of telomere maintenance as a key pathway underlying melanoma predisposition. Given these rapid recent advances, this approach seems likely to continue to pay dividends. Here, we review the currently known familial melanoma genes, providing evidence that most additionally confer risk to other cancers, indicating that they are likely general tumour suppressor genes or oncogenes, which has significant implications for surveillance and screening.
Role of cortisol in patients at risk for psychosis mental state and psychopathological correlates: A systematic review
Authors: Karanikas Evangelos , Garyfallos Giorgos
Published: November 2014

During recent decades, much evidence has been accumulated concerning the neuroendocrine basis of schizophrenia. Recently, research has focused on stress hormones, with cortisol being the most widely researched, during the prodromal phase of psychosis. Thus, the present study aims to systematically review the evidence concerning the role of cortisol in patients at risk for psychosis mental state and its associations with psychopathological correlates. We systematically reviewed the published reports referring to both ‘at clinical risk for psychosis’ and ‘at genetic risk for psychosis’ mental state. Sixteen studies were identified. A trend towards increased cortisol levels in saliva emerged. Findings concerning cortisol levels in the blood were minimal and less consistent. The longitudinal studies, though with divergent results, hinted towards upregulation of cortisol secretion prior to psychotic conversion. Regarding cortisol's reactivity, evaluated through neuroendocrine, psychosocial and naturalistic stressors, the findings were minimal and divergent. The hypothesized relation of psychotic symptomatology with cortisol in subjects at risk for psychosis was not confirmed by the majority of the studies. On the contrary, the anxiety parameter and stress‐intolerance index were both positively associated with cortisol. In conclusion, the published reports related to the evaluation of cortisol levels/function at prodrome are hitherto minimal. Although the evidence favors cortisol's participation in the pathophysiology of psychosis, the exact cause–effect sequence and the intertwining of cortisol with psychopathology are still unclear.
Shortened telomere in unremitted schizophrenia
Authors: Kota Lakshmi Narayanan , Purushottam Meera , Moily Nagaraj S. , Jain Sanjeev
Published: November 2014

Aim

Telomere attrition has been noted in many neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative syndromes, and may indicate a shared molecular pathology across conditions. We evaluated telomere length in subjects with remitted and unremitted schizophrenia and in control subjects.

Methods

We measured telomere length as relative telomere/single‐copy gene ratios in subjects with schizophrenia (n = 71) using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. This was compared with relative telomere/single‐copy gene ratios in age‐matched controls without neuropsychiatric illness (n = 73).

Results

The relative telomere/single‐copy gene ratios were significantly lower in subjects with unremitted schizophrenia when compared with control subjects (r = −0.281, P = 0.003), as well as the individuals with remitted schizophrenia.

Conclusion

The lower relative telomere length in unremitted schizophrenia subjects may thus indicate shared biological pathways with other neurodegenerative disorders that are also characterized by increased cellular senescence.
Identification and molecular characterization of Medicago truncatula NRT2 and NAR2 families
Authors: Pellizzaro Anthoni , Clochard Thibault , Planchet Elisabeth , Limami Anis M. , Morère‐Le Paven Marie‐Christine
Published: November 2014

Nitrate transporters received little attention to legumes probably because these species are able to adapt to N starvation by developing biological N2 fixation. Still it is important to study nitrate transport systems in legumes because nitrate intervenes as a signal in regulation of nodulation probably through nitrate transporters. The aim of this work is to achieve a molecular characterization of nitrate transporter 2 (NRT2) and NAR2 (NRT3) families to allow further work that would unravel their involvement in nitrate transport and signaling. Browsing the latest version of the Medicago truncatula genome annotation (v4 version) revealed three putative NRT2 members that we have named MtNRT2.1 (Medtr4g057890.1), MtNRT2.2 (Medtr4g057865.1) and MtNRT2.3 (Medtr8g069775.1) and two putative NAR2 members we named MtNAR2.1 (Medtr4g104730.1) and MtNAR2.2 (Medtr4g104700.1). The regulation and the spatial expression profiles of MtNRT2.1, the coincidence of its expression with that of MtNAR2.1 and MtNAR2.2 and the size of the encoded protein with 12 transmembrane (TM) spanning regions strongly support the idea that MtNRT2.1 is a nitrate transporter with a major contribution to the high‐affinity transport system (HATS), while a very low level of expression characterized MtNRT2.2. Unlike MtNRT2.1, MtNRT2.3 showed a lower level of expression in the root system but was expressed in the shoots and in the nodules thus suggesting an involvement of the encoded protein in nitrate transport inside the plant and/or in nitrate signaling pathways controlling post‐inoculation processes that govern nodule functioning.
Tuberculin skin test and QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐tube Test for latent tuberculosis in Thai HIV‐infected adults
Authors: Khawcharoenporn Thana , Apisarnthanarak Anucha , Phetsuksiri Benjawan , Rudeeaneksin Janisara , Srisungngam Sopa , Mundy Linda M.
Published: November 2014

Background and objective

Limited data exist for the performance of QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐tube Test (QFT‐IT) in comparison to tuberculin skin test (TST) for detecting latent tuberculosis (LTB) in patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection from tuberculosis (TB)‐endemic Asia‐Pacific countries.

Methods

A cohort study of Thai HIV‐infected patients without history of TB or LTB treatment was conducted from March 2012 through March 2013. Each patient underwent simultaneous TST and QFT‐IT.

Results

Among the 150 enrolled subjects, the median age was 40 years (range 17–65), 53% were male, and the median CD4 count was 367 cells/μL (range 8–1290). Reactive TST and positive QFT‐IT were 16% and 13%, respectively, with low concordance between tests (kappa = 0.26); correlation between TST reaction size and level of interferon‐γ was moderate (r = 0.34). Independent factors associated with discordant results were long‐term smoking (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 5.74; P = 0.002) for TST‐reactive, QFT‐IT‐negative subjects, and age greater than 52 years (aOR 5.56; P = 0.02) and female gender (aOR 4.40; P = 0.04) for TST non‐reactive, QFT‐IT‐positive subjects. The level of agreement between both tests improved when using a TST cut‐off of ≥10 mm (kappa = 0.39).

Conclusions

In our setting where QFT‐IT is available but has limited use due to cost, TST with a cut‐off of 10 mm for reactivity should be the initial LTB test. HIV‐infected women and persons older than 52 years with non‐reactive TST and long‐term smokers with reactive TST may benefit from subsequent QFT‐IT.
Assessing spatial patterns of HIV knowledge in rural Mozambique using geographic information systems
Authors: Buehler Charlotte P. , Blevins Meridith , Ossemane Ezequiel B. , González‐Calvo Lázaro , Ndatimana Elisée , Vermund Sten H. , Sidat Mohsin , Olupona Omo , Moon Troy D.
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To conduct a cross‐sectional mapping analysis of HIV knowledge in Zambézia Province, Mozambique, and to examine spatial patterns of HIV knowledge and associated household characteristics.

Methods

A population‐based cluster survey was administered in 2010; data were analysed from 201 enumeration areas in three geographically diverse districts: Alto Molócuè, Morrumbala and Namacurra. We assessed HIV knowledge scores (0–9 points) using previously validated assessment tools. Using geographic information systems (GIS), we mapped hot spots of high and low HIV knowledge. Our multivariable linear regression model estimated HIV knowledge associations with distance to nearest clinic offering antiretroviral therapy, respondent age, education, household size, number of children under five, numeracy, literacy and district of residence.

Results

We found little overall HIV knowledge in all three districts. People in Alto Molócuè knew comparatively most about HIV, with a median score of 3 (IQR 2–5) and 22 of 51 (43%) enumeration areas scoring ≥4 of 9 points. Namacurra district, closest to the capital city and expected to have the best HIV knowledge levels, had a median score of 1 (IQR 0–3) and only 3 of 57 (5%) enumeration areas scoring ≥4 points. More HIV knowledge was associated with more education, age, household size, numeracy and proximity to a health facility offering antiretroviral therapy.

Conclusions

HIV knowledge is critical for its prevention and treatment. By pinpointing areas of poor HIV knowledge, programme planners can prioritize educational resources and outreach initiatives within the context of antiretroviral therapy expansion.
Effective reimbursement rates of the rural health insurance among uncomplicated tuberculosis patients in China
Authors: Wei Xiaolin , Zou Guanyang , Yin Jia , Walley John , Zhang Xin , Li Renzhong , Sun Qiang
Published: November 2014

Objective

China has established universal health coverage for 830 million rural residents through the rapid expansion of the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS). This study accesses the effective reimbursement rates of NCMS among patients with tuberculosis (TB) who lived in counties where their schemes covered costs within TB dispensaries and those who did not.

Methods

We randomly selected 50 patients with uncomplicated TB from each of the eight counties in two provinces. We reviewed all patient clinical charts and conducted face‐to‐face surveys. Effective reimbursement was measured as the proportion of patients who received reimbursement from NCMS and the average reimbursement rate of total medical costs.

Results

A total of 393 patients with TB were included with 186 from Zhejiang and 206 from Sichuan. In the covered group, only 41% of patients with TB received reimbursements for medical costs in TB dispensary in Zhejiang as compared to 84% in Sichuan, because patients in Zhejiang needed to keep their bills and claim later, while Sichuan had patient medical costs automatically deducted at the point of care. Patients in the covered group had a significantly higher average reimbursement rate compared with those in the uncovered group (13% vs. 8% in Zhejiang and 17% vs. 12% in Sichuan). For all patients, the biggest cost was due to hospitalisation, and their overall reimbursement rates were low.

Conclusion

New Cooperative Medical Scheme has not relieved the financial burden of TB‐related medical costs. NCMS should cover costs in TB dispensaries. Measures are also needed to minimise unnecessary hospitalisation, and lower the barriers to claims.
Lack of cytosolic glutamine synthetase1;2 in vascular tissues of axillary buds causes severe reduction in their outgrowth and disorder of metabolic balance in rice seedlings
Authors: Ohashi Miwa , Ishiyama Keiki , Kusano Miyako , Fukushima Atsushi , Kojima Soichi , Hanada Atsushi , Kanno Keiichi , Hayakawa Toshihiko , Seto Yoshiya , Kyozuka Junko , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Yamaya Tomoyuki
Published: November 2014

The development and elongation of active tillers in rice was severely reduced by a lack of cytosolic glutamine synthetase1;2 (GS1;2), and, to a lesser extent, lack of NADH‐glutamate synthase1 in knockout mutants. In situ hybridization using the basal part of wild‐type seedlings clearly showed that expression of OsGS1;2 was detected in the phloem companion cells of the nodal vascular anastomoses and large vascular bundles of axillary buds. Accumulation of lignin, visualized using phloroglucin HCl, was also observed in these tissues. The lack of GS1;2 resulted in reduced accumulation of lignin. Re‐introduction into the mutants of OsGS1;2 cDNA under the control of its own promoter successfully restored the outgrowth of tillers and lignin deposition to wild‐type levels. Transcriptomic analysis using a 5 mm basal region of rice shoots showed that the GS1;2 mutants accumulated reduced amounts of mRNAs for carbon and nitrogen metabolism, including C1 unit transfer in lignin synthesis. Although a high content of strigolactone in rice roots is known to reduce active tiller number, the reduction of outgrowth of axillary buds observed in the GS1;2 mutants was independent of the level of strigolactone. Thus metabolic disorder caused by the lack of GS1;2 resulted in a severe reduction in the outgrowth of axillary buds and lignin deposition.
Evidence for an unusual transmembrane configuration of AGG3, a class C Gγ subunit of Arabidopsis
Authors: Wolfenstetter Susanne , Chakravorty David , Kula Ryan , Urano Daisuke , Trusov Yuri , Sheahan Michael B. , McCurdy David W. , Assmann Sarah M. , Jones Alan M. , Botella José R.
Published: November 2014

Heterotrimeric G proteins are crucial for the perception of external signals and subsequent signal transduction in animal and plant cells. In both model systems, the complex comprises one Gα, one Gβ, and one Gγ subunit. However, in addition to the canonical Gγ subunits (class A), plants also possess two unusual, plant‐specific classes of Gγ subunits (classes B and C) that have not yet been found in animals. These include Gγ subunits lacking the C–terminal CaaX motif (class B), which is important for membrane anchoring of the protein; the presence of such subunits gives rise to a flexible sub‐population of Gβ/γ heterodimers that are not necessarily restricted to the plasma membrane. Plants also contain class C Gγ subunits, which are twice the size of canonical Gγ subunits, with a predicted transmembrane domain and a large cysteine‐rich extracellular C–terminus. However, neither the presence of the transmembrane domain nor the membrane topology have been unequivocally demonstrated. Here, we provide compelling evidence that AGG3, a class C Gγ subunit of Arabidopsis, contains a functional transmembrane domain, which is sufficient but not essential for plasma membrane localization, and that the cysteine‐rich C–terminus is extracellular.
Level 1 Hecke algebras of modular forms modulo
Authors: Bellaïche Joël , Khare Chandrashekhar
Published: November 2014

In this paper, we study the structure of the local components of the (shallow, i.e. without $U_{p}$) Hecke algebras acting on the space of modular forms modulo $p$ of level $1$, and relate them to pseudo-deformation rings. In many cases, we prove that those local components are regular complete local algebras of dimension $2$, generalizing a recent result of Nicolas and Serre for the case $p=2$.
Random triangular groups at density
Authors: Antoniuk Sylwia , Łuczak Tomasz , Świa̧tkowski Jacek
Published: November 2014

Let ${\rm\Gamma}(n,p)$ denote the binomial model of a random triangular group. We show that there exist constants $c,C>0$ such that if $p\leqslant c/n^{2}$, then asymptotically almost surely (a.a.s.) ${\rm\Gamma}(n,p)$ is free, and if $p\geqslant C\log n/n^{2}$, then a.a.s. ${\rm\Gamma}(n,p)$ has Kazhdan’s property (T). Furthermore, we show that there exist constants $C^{\prime },c^{\prime }>0$ such that if $C^{\prime }/n^{2}\leqslant p\leqslant c^{\prime }\log n/n^{2}$, then a.a.s. ${\rm\Gamma}(n,p)$ is neither free nor has Kazhdan’s property (T).
Electrophysiological properties of laryngeal motoneurones in rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Moraes Davi J. A. , Machado Benedito H.
Published: November 2014

Key points

The respiratory control of the glottis by laryngeal motoneurones is characterized by inspiratory abduction and post‐inspiratory adduction causing decreases and increases in upper airway resistance, respectively.

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), an important component of obstructive sleep apnoea, exaggerated glottal abduction (before inspiration), associated with active expiration and decreased glottal adduction during post‐inspiration.

CIH increased the inspiratory and decreased the post‐inspiratory laryngeal motoneurone activities, which is not associated to changes in their intrinsic electrophysiological properties.

We conclude that the changes in the respiratory network after CIH seem to be an adaptive process required for an appropriated pulmonary ventilation and control of upper airway resistance under intermittent episodes of hypoxia.

To keep an appropriate airflow to and from the lungs under physiological conditions a precise neural co‐ordination of the upper airway resistance by laryngeal motoneurones in the nucleus ambiguus is essential. Chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), an important component of obstructive sleep apnoea, may alter these fine mechanisms. Here, using nerve and whole cell patch clamp recordings in in situ preparations of rats we investigated the effects of CIH on the respiratory control of the upper airway resistance, on the electrophysiological properties of laryngeal motoneurones in the nucleus ambiguus, and the role of carotid body (CB) afferents to the brainstem on the underlying mechanisms of these effects. CIH rats exhibited longer pre‐inspiratory and lower post‐inspiratory superior laryngeal nerve activities than control rats. These changes produced exaggerated glottal abduction (before inspiration) and decreased glottal adduction during post‐inspiration, indicating a reduction of upper airway resistance during these respiratory phases after CIH. CB denervation abolished these changes produced by CIH. Regarding choline acetyltransferase positive‐laryngeal motoneurones, CIH increased the firing frequency of inspiratory and decreased the firing frequency of post‐inspiratory laryngeal motoneurones, without changes in their intrinsic electrophysiological properties. These data show that the effects of CIH on the upper airway resistance and laryngeal motoneurones activities are driven by the integrity of CB, which afferents induce changes in the central respiratory generators in the brainstem. These neural changes in the respiratory network seem to be an adaptive process required for an appropriated pulmonary ventilation and control of upper airway resistance under intermittent episodes of hypoxia.
Non‐receptor tyrosine kinases and the actin cytoskeleton in contractile vascular smooth muscle
Authors: Ohanian Jacqueline , Pieri Maria , Ohanian Vasken
Published: November 2014

The contractility of vascular smooth muscle cells within the walls of arteries is regulated by mechanical stresses and vasoactive signals. Transduction of these diverse stimuli into a cellular response occurs through many different mechanisms, one being reorganisation of the actin cytoskeleton. In addition to a structural role in maintaining cellular architecture it is now clear that the actin cytoskeleton of contractile vascular smooth muscle cells is a dynamic structure reacting to changes in the cellular environment. Equally clear is that disrupting the cytoskeleton or interfering with its rearrangement, has profound effects on artery contractility. The actin cytoskeleton associates with dense plaques, also called focal adhesions, at the plasma membrane of smooth muscle cells. Vasoconstrictors and mechanical stress induce remodelling of the focal adhesions, concomitant with cytoskeletal reorganisation. Recent work has shown that non‐receptor tyrosine kinases and tyrosine phosphorylation of focal adhesion proteins such as paxillin and Hic‐5 are important for actin cytoskeleton and focal adhesion remodelling and contraction.
Characterization of Cross-Reactive Norovirus-Specific Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Kou Baijun , Crawford Sue E. , Ajami Nadim J. , Czakó Rita , Neill Frederick H. , Tanaka Tomoyuki N. , Kitamoto Noritoshi , Palzkill Timothy G. , Estes Mary K. , Atmar Robert L.
Published: November 2014

Noroviruses (NoVs) commonly cause acute gastroenteritis outbreaks. Broadly reactive diagnostic assays are essential for rapid detection of NoV infections. We previously generated a panel of broadly reactive monoclonal antibodies (MAbs). We characterized MAb reactivities by use of virus-like particles (VLPs) from 16 different NoV genotypes (6 from genogroup I [GI], 9 from GII, and 1 from GIV) coating a microtiter plate (direct enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]) and by Western blotting. MAbs were genotype specific or recognized multiple genotypes within a genogroup and between genogroups. We next applied surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis to measure MAb dissociation constants (Kd) as a surrogate for binding affinity; aKdlevel of <10 nM was regarded as indicating strong binding. Some MAbs did not interact with the VLPs by SPR analysis. To further assess this lack of MAb-VLP interaction, the MAbs were evaluated for the ability to identify NoV VLPs in a capture ELISA. Those MAbs for which aKdcould not be measured by SPR analysis also failed to capture the NoV VLPs; in contrast, those with a measurableKdgave a positive signal in the capture ELISA. Thus, some broadly cross-reactive epitopes in the VP1 protruding domain may be partially masked on intact particles. One MAb, NV23, was able to detect genogroup I, II, and IV VLPs from 16 genotypes tested by sandwich ELISA, and it successfully detected NoVs in stool samples positive by real-time reverse transcription-PCR when the threshold cycle (CT) value was <31. Biochemical analyses of MAb reactivity, including SPR analysis, identified NV23 as a broadly reactive ligand for application in norovirus diagnostic assays.
Mapping Broadly Reactive Norovirus Genogroup I and II Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Crawford Sue E. , Ajami Nadim , Parker Tracy Dewese , Kitamoto Noritoshi , Natori Katsuro , Takeda Naokazu , Tanaka Tomoyuki , Kou Baijun , Atmar Robert L. , Estes Mary K.
Published: November 2014

Noroviruses are responsible for most acute nonbacterial epidemic outbreaks of gastroenteritis worldwide. To develop cross-reactive monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) for rapid identification of genogroup I and II (GI and GII) noroviruses (NoVs) in field specimens, mice were immunized with baculovirus-expressed recombinant virus-like particles (VLPs) corresponding to NoVs. Nine MAbs against the capsid protein were identified that detected both GI and GII NoV VLPs. These MAbs were tested in competition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) to identify common epitope reactivities to GI and GII VLPs. Patterns of competitive reactivity placed these MAbs into two epitope groups (groups 1 and 2). Epitopes for MAbs NV23 and NS22 (group 1) and MAb F120 (group 2) were mapped to a continuous region in the C-terminal P1 subdomain of the capsid protein. This domain is within regions previously defined to contain cross-reactive epitopes in GI and GII viruses, suggesting that common epitopes are clustered within the P1 domain of the capsid protein. Further characterization in an accompanying paper (B. Kou et al., Clin Vaccine Immunol 22:160–167, 2015,http://dx.doi.org/10.1128/CVI.00519-14) revealed that MAb NV23 (epitope group 1) is able to detect GI and GII viruses in stool. Inclusion of the GI and GII cross-reactive MAb NV23 in antigen detection assays may facilitate the identification of GI and GII human noroviruses in stool samples as causative agents of outbreaks and sporadic cases of gastroenteritis worldwide.
Complete Genome Sequence of Mumps Virus Genotype G from a Vaccinated Child in Franceville, Southeastern Gabon, in 2013
Authors: Maganga Gael D. , Iroungou Berthe A. , Bole-Feysot Christine , Leroy Eric M. , Touré Ndouo Fousseyni S. , Berthet Nicolas
Published: November 2014

The genome of mumps virus (MuV), a member of the family
Paramyxoviridae
of the genus
Rubulavirus
, consists of a single-stranded, negative-sense, nonsegmented RNA. Here, we report the first whole-genome sequence of 15,263 nucleotides of a mumps virus strain from a 6-year-old vaccinated boy in Franceville, southeastern Gabon.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Lelliottia
Podophage phD2B
Authors: Nowicki Grzegorz , Barylski Jakub , Kujawa Natalia , Goździcka-Józefiak Anna
Published: November 2014

The genus
Lelliottia
was recently created from the group of environmental gammaproteobacteria previously included in the genus
Enterobacter
. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of phD2B, the first (according to our current knowledge) known phage that infects bacterium from the taxon.
Complete Genome Sequence of Leuconostoc citreum Strain NRRL B-742
Authors: Passerini Delphine , Vuillemin Marlène , Laguerre Sandrine , Amari Myriam , Loux Valentin , Gabriel Valérie , Robert Hervé , Morel Sandrine , Monsan Pierre , Gabriel Bruno , Fontagné-Faucher Catherine , Remaud-Siméon Magali , Moulis Claire
Published: November 2014

Leuconostoc citreum
belongs to the group of lactic acid bacteria and plays an important role in fermented foods of plant origin. Here, we report the complete genome of the
Leuconostoc citreum
strain NRRL B-742, isolated in 1954 for its capacity to produce dextran.
Draft Genome Sequence of Coxiella burnetii Strain Cb196, an Agent of Endocarditis in Saudi Arabia
Authors: D'Amato Felicetta , Robert Catherine , Azhar E. I. , Fournier Pierre-Edouard , Raoult Didier
Published: November 2014

Coxiella burnetiiCb196, with a 2,006,415-bp genome, is a strain isolated from a 45-year-old man in Saudi Arabia with endocarditis. It belongs to the genotype MST51, which was detected for the first time only in this country. Cb196 shows more similarity toC. burnetiiCbuK_Q154, belonging to genotype 8, which was phylogenetically close to MST51.
Draft Genome Sequence of an International Clonal Lineage 1 Acinetobacter baumannii Strain from Argentina
Authors: Vilacoba Elisabet , Déraspe Maxime , Traglia German M. , Roy Paul H. , Ramírez María Soledad , Centrón Daniela
Published: November 2014

In the last few years
Acinetobacter baumannii
has emerged worldwide as an important nosocomial pathogen in medical institutions. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of the international clonal lineage 1 (ICL1)
A. baumannii
strain A144 that was isolated in a hospital in Buenos Aires City in the year 1997. The strain is susceptible to carbapenems and resistant to trimethoprim and gentamicin.
Complete Genome Characterization of Korean Porcine Deltacoronavirus Strain KOR/KNU14-04/2014
Authors: Lee Sunhee , Lee Changhee
Published: November 2014

In April 2014, porcine deltacoronavirus (PDCoV) was first identified in feces from diarrheic piglets in South Korea and found to be closely related to other PDCoV strains. The complete genome of the Korean PDCoV strain, KOR/KNU14-04/2014, was sequenced and analyzed to characterize PDCoV circulating in South Korea.
Complete Genome Sequence of Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Strain FMNP01, Isolated from Mango Fruit
Authors: Li Xue-Fei , Liao Xue-Yi , Liu Yong-Feng , Guo Li-Qiong , Ye Zhi-Wei , Lin Jun-Fang
Published: November 2014

Lactobacillus plantarum
strain FMNP01 is a new strain with probiotic properties that was isolated from fresh mango from Guangzhou, China. Here, we report the complete genome of this organism.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. Strain ND6B, an Oil-Degrading Isolate from Eastern Mediterranean Sea Water Collected at a Depth of 1,210 Meters
Authors: Harris Austin P. , Techtmann Stephen M. , Stelling Savannah C. , Utturkar Sagar M. , Alshibli Noor K. , Brown Steven D. , Hazen Terry C.
Published: November 2014

Here, we report the draft genome of
Pseudoalteromonas
sp. strain ND6B, which is able to grow with crude oil as a carbon source. Strain ND6B was isolated from eastern Mediterranean Sea deep water at a depth of 1,210 m. The genome of strain ND6B provides insight into the oil-degrading ability of the
Pseudoalteromonas
species.
Draft Genome Sequence of Taylorella equigenitalis Strain MCE529, Isolated from a Belgian Warmblood Horse
Authors: Hébert Laurent , Touzain Fabrice , de Boisséson Claire , Breuil Marie-France , Duquesne Fabien , Laugier Claire , Blanchard Yannick , Petry Sandrine
Published: November 2014

Taylorella equigenitalis
is the causative agent of contagious equine metritis (CEM), a sexually transmitted infection of horses. We herein report the genome sequence of
T. equigenitalis
strain MCE529, isolated in 2009 from the urethral fossa of a 15-year-old Belgian Warmblood horse in France.
Genome Sequence of a Multidrug-Resistant Strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae, BAMC 07-18, Isolated from a Combat Injury Wound
Authors: Van Laar Tricia A. , Chen Tsute , Childers Brandon M. , Chen Ping , Abercrombie Johnathan J. , Leung Kai P.
Published: November 2014

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is an important infectious agent of surgical sites and combat wounds. Antibiotic resistance and tolerance are common impediments to the healing of chronic infections. Here, we report the genome sequence of a highly multidrug-resistant strain of
K. pneumoniae
, BAMC 07-18, isolated from a combat wound of a soldier.
Genome Sequence of Corynebacterium ulcerans Strain 210932
Authors: Viana Marcus Vinicius Canário , de Jesus Benevides Leandro , Batista Mariano Diego Cesar , de Souza Rocha Flávia , Bagano Vilas Boas Priscilla Carolinne , Folador Edson Luiz , Pereira Felipe Luiz , Alves Dorella Fernanda , Gomes Leal Carlos Augusto , Fiorini de Carvalho Alex , Silva Artur , de Castro Soares Siomar , Pereira Figueiredo Henrique Cesar , Azevedo Vasco , Guimarães Luis Carlos
Published: November 2014

In this work, we present the complete genome sequence of
Corynebacterium ulcerans
strain 210932, isolated from a human. The species is an emergent pathogen that infects a variety of wild and domesticated animals and humans. It is associated with a growing number of cases of a diphtheria-like disease around the world.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Algicidal Bacterium Mangrovimonas yunxiaonensis Strain LY01
Authors: Li Yi , Zhu Hong , Li Chongping , Zhang Huajun , Chen Zhangran , Zheng Wei , Xu Hong , Zheng Tianling
Published: November 2014

Mangrovimonas yunxiaonensis
LY01, a novel bacterium isolated from mangrove sediment, showed high algicidal effects on harmful algal blooms of
Alexandrium tamarense
. Here, we present the first draft genome sequence of this strain to further understanding of the functional genes related to algicidal activity.
High-Throughput Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive-Unit–Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Genotyping for Mycobacterium tuberculosis Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Gauthier Marie , Bidault Floriane , Mosnier Amandine , Bablishvili Nino , Tukvadze Nestani , Somphavong Silaphet , Paboriboune Phimpha , Ocheretina Oksana , Pape Jean William , Paranhos-Baccala Glaucia , Berland Jean-Luc
Published: November 2014

The emergence of drug-resistant forms of tuberculosis (TB) represents a major public health concern. Understanding the transmission routes of the disease is a key factor for its control and for the implementation of efficient interventions. Mycobacterial interspersed repetitive-unit–variable-number tandem-repeat (MIRU-VNTR) marker typing is a well-described method for lineage identification and transmission tracking. However, the conventional manual genotyping technique is cumbersome and time-consuming and entails many risks for errors, thus hindering its implementation and dissemination. We describe here a new approach using the QIAxcel system, an automated high-throughput capillary electrophoresis system that also carries out allele calling. This automated method was assessed on 1,824 amplicons from 82 TB isolates and tested with sets of markers of 15 or 24 loci. Overall allele-calling concordance between the methods from 140 to 1,317 bp was 98.9%. DNA concentrations and repeatability and reproducibility performances showed no biases in allele calling. Furthermore, turnaround time using this automated system was reduced by 81% compared to the conventional manual agarose gel method. In sum, this new automated method facilitates MIRU-VNTR genotyping and provides reliable results. Therefore, it is well suited for field genotyping. The implementation of this method will help to achieve accurate and cost-effective epidemiological studies, especially in countries with a high prevalence of TB, where the high number of strains complicates the surveillance of circulating lineages and requires efficient interventions to be carried out in an urgent manner.
Design and Evaluation of Peptide Nucleic Acid Probes for Specific Identification of Candida albicans
Authors: Kim Hyun-Joong , Brehm-Stecher Byron F.
Published: November 2014

Candida albicans
is an important cause of systemic fungal infections, and rapid diagnostics for identifying and differentiating
C. albicans
from other
Candida
species are critical for the timely application of appropriate antimicrobial therapy, improved patient outcomes, and pharmaceutical cost savings. In this work, two 28S rRNA-directed peptide nucleic acid-fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (PNA-FISH) probes, P-Ca726 (targeting a novel region of the ribosome) and P-CalB2208 (targeting a previously reported region), were evaluated. Hybridization conditions were optimized by using both fluorescence microscopy (FM) and flow cytometry (FCM), and probes were screened for specificity and discriminative ability against a panel of
C. albicans
and various nontarget
Candida
spp. The performance of these PNA probes was compared quantitatively against that of DNA probes or DNA probe/helper combinations directed against the same target regions. Ratiometric analyses of FCM results indicated that both the hybridization quality and yield of the PNA probes were higher than those of the DNA probes. In FCM-based comparisons of the PNA probes, P-Ca726 was found to be highly specific, showing 2.5- to 5.5-fold-higher discriminatory power for
C. albicans
than P-CalB2208. The use of formamide further improved the performance of the new probe. Our results reinforce the significant practical and diagnostic advantages of PNA probes over their DNA counterparts for FISH and indicate that P-Ca726 may be used advantageously for the rapid and specific identification of
C. albicans
in clinical and related applications, especially when combined with FCM.
Evaluation of the Cobas TaqMan MTB Test for the Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex According to Acid-Fast-Bacillus Smear Grades in Respiratory Specimens
Authors: Huh Hee Jae , Koh Won-Jung , Song Dong Joon , Ki Chang-Seok , Lee Nam Yong
Published: November 2014

We evaluated the performance of the Cobas TaqMan MTB test (Roche Diagnostics, Basel, Switzerland), stratified by acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear grades. The sensitivity of this test in smear-positive specimens was >95% in all grades, while that in trace and negative specimens was 85.3% and 34.4%, respectively.
Pott's Disease? AIDS-Associated Mycobacterium heckeshornense Spinal Osteomyelitis and Diskitis
Authors: Carpenter Robert J. , Graf Paul C. F.
Published: November 2014

Acid-fast bacillus (AFB) spinal osteomyelitis in a patient with AIDS is often presumed to be caused by reactivated
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. However, other AFB pathogens can mimic
M. tuberculosis
and, to ensure appropriate and adequate therapy, should be considered by clinicians. We present a case of aggressive spinal osteomyelitis caused by
Mycobacterium heckeshornense
in an AIDS patient; a review of the literature is also included.
A Case of IMP-4-, OXA-421-, OXA-96-, and CARB-2-Producing Acinetobacterpittii Sequence Type 119 in Australia
Authors: Kamolvit Witchuda , Derrington Petra , Paterson David L. , Sidjabat Hanna E.
Published: November 2014

An IMP-4-producing
Acinetobacter
pittii
strain coproducing oxacillinases was isolated from a leg wound of a 67-year-old female patient. Identification to the species level by
rpoB
and
gyrB
sequencing and multiplex-PCR-based analysis revealed that the isolate was
A. pittii
. Whole-genome sequencing of this
A. pittii
isolate determined the presence of
bla
OXA-96
,
bla
CARB-2
, and a novel
bla
OXA-421
gene. The position of this novel
bla
OXA-421
gene was similar to that of
bla
OXA-51
in
A. baumannii
, downstream of the phosphinothricin
N
-acetyltransferase gene and upstream of
fxsA
in the chromosome. This
A. pittii
isolate was found to belong to sequence type 119 (ST119). Here, we report the first isolation of IMP-4-producing
A. pittii
ST119 with a novel
bla
OXA-421
gene from a patient in Australia and characterize its draft genome.
Canine Distemper Virus Antigen Detection in External Epithelia of Recently Vaccinated, Sick Dogs by Fluorescence Microscopy Is a Valuable Prognostic Indicator
Authors: Kapil Sanjay , Neel Tina
Published: November 2014

Currently, there are no reliable predictors of the clinical outcomes of domesticated dogs that have been recently vaccinated against canine distemper virus (CDV) and develop respiratory disease. In this study, vaccinated dogs from Oklahoma City that were showing clinical signs of respiratory disease were evaluated for CDV antigen using a direct fluorescent antibody test (FAT). Clinical outcomes after standard symptomatic therapy for respiratory disease were recorded, and a statistical analysis of the results was performed. We present our study showing that CDV FAT results were predictive of clinical recovery (prognostic indicator, prospects of clinical recovery) among vaccinated dogs showing clinical signs of respiratory disease. Negative CDV FAT results equated to 80% chances of recovery after symptomatic therapy, compared to 55% chances of recovery when the CDV FAT results were positive. Based on the results of this study, we show that veterinarians can make better informed decisions about the clinical outcomes of suspected CDV cases, with 2-h turnaround times, by using the CDV FAT. Thus, antemortem examination with the CDV FAT on external epithelia of recently vaccinated, sick dogs is a clinically useful diagnostic test and valuable prognostic indicator for veterinarians. Application of the CDV FAT to these samples avoids unnecessary euthanasia of dogs with suspected CDV.
Discrimination between Active and Latent Tuberculosis Based on Ratio of Antigen-Specific to Mitogen-Induced IP-10 Production
Authors: Jeong Yun Hee , Hur Yun-Gyoung , Lee Hyejon , Kim Sunghyun , Cho Jang-Eun , Chang Jun , Shin Sung Jae , Lee Hyeyoung , Kang Young Ae , Cho Sang-Nae , Ha Sang-Jun
Published: November 2014

Mycobacterium tuberculosisis the major causative agent of tuberculosis (TB). The gamma interferon (IFN-γ) release assay (IGRA) has been widely used to diagnose TB by testing cell-mediated immune responses but has no capacity for distinguishing between active TB and latent TB infection (LTBI). This study aims to identify a parameter that will help to discriminate active TB and LTBI. Whole-blood samples from 33 active TB patients, 20 individuals with LTBI, and 26 non-TB controls were applied to the commercial IFN-γ release assay, QuantiFERON-TB Gold In-Tube, and plasma samples were analyzed for interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IFN-γ, monokine induced by IFN-γ (MIG), interferon gamma inducible protein 10 (IP-10), interferon-inducible T cell alpha chemoattractant (I-TAC), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) by using a commercial cytometric bead array. TheMycobacterium tuberculosisantigen-specific production of most of the assayed cytokines and chemokines was higher in the active TB than in the LTBI group. The mitogen-induced responses were lower in the active TB than in the LTBI group. When the ratio of TB-specific to mitogen-induced responses was calculated, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MIG, and IP-10 were more useful in discriminating active TB from LTBI. In particular, most patients showed higher IP-10 production toMycobacterium tuberculosisantigens than to mitogen at the individual level, and the ratio for IP-10 was the strongest indicator of active infection versus LTBI with 93.9% sensitivity and 90% specificity. In conclusion, the ratio of the TB-specific to the mitogen-induced IP-10 responses showed the most promising accuracy for discriminating active TB versus LTBI and should be further studied to determine whether it can serve as a biomarker that might help clinicians administer appropriate treatments.
Development of a Rapid Multiplex PCR Assay To Genotype Pasteurella multocida Strains by Use of the Lipopolysaccharide Outer Core Biosynthesis Locus
Authors: Harper Marina , John Marietta , Turni Conny , Edmunds Mark , St. Michael Frank , Adler Ben , Blackall P. J. , Cox Andrew D. , Boyce John D.
Published: November 2014

Pasteurella multocida
is a Gram-negative bacterial pathogen that is the causative agent of a wide range of diseases in many animal species, including humans. A widely used method for differentiation of
P. multocida
strains involves the Heddleston serotyping scheme. This scheme was developed in the early 1970s and classifies
P. multocida
strains into 16 somatic or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) serovars using an agar gel diffusion precipitin test. However, this gel diffusion assay is problematic, with difficulties reported in accuracy, reproducibility, and the sourcing of quality serovar-specific antisera. Using our knowledge of the genetics of LPS biosynthesis in
P. multocida
, we have developed a multiplex PCR (mPCR) that is able to differentiate strains based on the genetic organization of the LPS outer core biosynthesis loci. The accuracy of the LPS-mPCR was compared with classical Heddleston serotyping using LPS compositional data as the “gold standard.” The LPS-mPCR correctly typed 57 of 58 isolates; Heddleston serotyping was able to correctly and unambiguously type only 20 of the 58 isolates. We conclude that our LPS-mPCR is a highly accurate LPS genotyping method that should replace the Heddleston serotyping scheme for the classification of
P. multocida
strains.