bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Angiographic Disease Progression and Residual Risk of Cardiovascular Events While on Optimal Medical Therapy
Authors: Mancini G.B. John , Hartigan Pamela M. , Bates Eric R. , Sedlis Steven P. , Maron David J. , Spertus John A. , Berman Daniel S. , Kostuk William J. , Shaw Leslee J. , Weintraub William S. , Teo Koon K. , Dada Marcin , Chaitman Bernard R. , O'Rourke Robert A. , Boden William E.
Published: November 2011

Background—

The extent to which recurrent events in patients with stable coronary artery disease is attributable to progression of an index lesion originally ≥50% diameter stenosis (DS) but not revascularized or originally <50% DS is unknown during optimal medical therapy (OMT).

Methods and Results—

In the COURAGE (Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation) trial, 205 patients assigned to OMT plus percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and 284 patients assigned to OMT only had symptom-driven angiograms suitable for analysis. Percentages of patients in the OMT+PCI and OMT-only cohorts with index lesions originally <50% DS were 30% and 32%, respectively; 20% and 68% had index lesions originally ≥50% DS. In both groups, index lesions originally <50% or ≥50% DS represented <4% and <25% of all such lesions, respectively. The only angiographic predictor of myocardial infarction or acute coronary syndrome was the number of lesions originally ≥50% DS that had not been revascularized (odds ratio, 1.15; confidence limits, 1.01–1.31;
P
<0.04).

Conclusions—

Lesions originally <50% DS were index lesions in one third of patients referred for symptom-driven repeat angiography, but represented <4% of all such lesions. Nonrevascularized lesions originally ≥50% DS were more often index lesions in OMT-only patients, but still represented a minority (<25%) of all such lesions. These findings underscore the need for improved therapies to arrest plaque progression and reliable strategies for selecting stenoses warranting PCI.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00007657.
The effect of loom settings on weavability limits on air-jet weaving machines
Authors: Turhan Yildiray , Eren Recep
Published: November 2011

In this paper, the effect of weaving machine settings on weavability limits of air-jet looms was investigated by weaving plain weave fabrics with polyester warp and weft yarns. For this purpose, firstly, weavability limits were determined for 16.7 tex weft by setting back-rest height, total warp tension, frontshed angle and shed closing time at different levels without changing the properties of warp. For each machine setting, weft density was increased gradually until reaching the weavable limit. During the experiments, weaving continuity, unfavorable effects interrupting this continuity, negative changes on fabric and yarns were observed. In the mean time, the warp yarn tension and cloth-fell distance were measured. Later, the weaving with 7.8 and 33.3 tex wefts was carried out at the settings required to produce a weave at the maximum weft density for 16.7 tex weft. The maximum weavable weft densities were determined for these two weft yarns. Finally, the obtained maximum weft densities and cover factors with three different weft yarns were compared with the results obtained from theoretical equations of Pierce, Love and Brierley.

It was found that the warp tension had the most significant effect on the weavability limits. Changing shed adjustment from the zero level of the back rest to higher values, increased the weavability limit slightly, but increasing the shed asymmetry further did not have a significant effect on the weavability limit. The shed closing time had some effect on the limit. But this was less than the effect of the warp tension. Changing the front shed angle did not have any effect on weavability limits.
The Effects of N‐Acetylcysteine and Deferoxamine on Plasma Cytokine and Oxidative Damage Parameters in Critically Ill Patients With Prolonged Hypotension: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Fraga Cassiana Mazon , Tomasi Cristiane Damiani , Biff Daiane , Topanotti Maria Fernanda Locks , Felisberto Francine , Vuolo Francieli , Petronilho Fabricia , Dal‐Pizzol Felipe , Ritter Cristiane
Published: November 2011

Reactive oxygen species and inflammation have been implicated in renal tubule cell injury. However, there is some controversy concerning whether antioxidants might attenuate oxidative damage and inflammation in humans after hypotension in the setting of critical illness. This study was a prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study that included patients with hypotension. Patients were randomized to receive either N‐acetylcysteine (NAC; 50 mg/kg by 4 hours followed by 100 mg/kg/d for 48 hours diluted in 5% glucose) and deferoxamine (DFX; at a single dose of 1000 mg diluted in 5% glucose) or placebo. The primary study outcome was the serum levels of markers of oxidative damage and inflammatory response. Secondary outcomes included the incidence of acute renal failure, serum creatinine at hospital discharge, intensive care unit length of stay, and length of hospital stay. Thirty patients were enrolled in the study. The use of NAC plus DFX decreased the oxidative damage parameters but not plasma interleukin‐6 levels. In contrast, plasma nitrite levels increased 24 hours after NAC plus DFX administration. On analysis of secondary outcomes, it was observed that creatinine levels at hospital discharge were lower in patients receiving NAC plus DFX when compared with placebo. NAC plus DFX administration was able to decrease plasma markers of oxidative damage and creatinine levels at hospital discharge.
Bloodstream Infections in Patients Receiving Manufactured Parenteral Nutrition With vs Without Lipids
Authors: Pontes‐Arruda Alessandro , Liu Frank Xiaoqing , Turpin Robin S. , Mercaldi Catherine J. , Hise Mary , Zaloga Gary
Published: November 2011

Background: This study compared overall bacterial and bloodstream infection rates in patients receiving premixed parenteral nutrition (PN) with vs without lipid emulsion. Methods: Data from hospitalized patients who were ≥18 years of age and receiving premixed PN between 2005 and 2007 were extracted from the Premier Perspective database. Data were categorized into 2 groups: patients who received premixed PN only and those receiving premixed PN with lipids. Multiple logistic regression was used to adjust for risk factors and potential confounders, reporting the probability of risk for an infection. Results: The group without lipids was observed to have lower rates of both overall bacterial infection (43.5% vs 53.5%) and bloodstream infection (14.5% vs 18.9%). However, after adjusting for baseline characteristics, there were no significant differences in overall risk of bacterial infections (51.4% vs 53.5%; odds ratio [OR] = 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–1.27) or bloodstream infections (19.6% vs 19.2%; 0.97; 0.81–1.16). In a subset of patients in the intensive care unit for ≥3 days, lower overall bacterial infection rates (58.3% vs 67.3%) and bloodstream infection rates (31.0% vs 37.0%) were observed in the group without lipids. After adjustment, there were no significant differences in risk of overall bacterial infection (OR = 0.95; 95% CI, 0.75–1.22) or bloodstream infection (0.92; 0.71–1.19) between the 2 groups. Conclusions: When administered with premixed PN, lipid emulsion was not significantly associated with an increase in the risk of infectious morbidity when compared to omitting lipids from therapy.
Hail the Snail: Hegemonic Struggles in the Slow Food Movement
Authors: van Bommel Koen , Spicer André
Published: November 2011

This paper explores how new institutional fields are established and extended. We argue that they are created by social movements engaging in hegemonic struggles and which develop social movement strategies, articulate discourses and construct nodal points. We examine how this process played out during the creation and development of the Slow Food movement. We argue that the positioning of Slow Food as a new field was based particularly on using multiple strategies, increasing the stock of floating signifiers, and abstracting the nodal points used. This mobilized new actors and enabled a more extensive collective identity which allowed the movement to progress, extend, and elevate the field of Slow Food. The field of Slow Food was transformed from appealing only to gastronomes to becoming a broader field that encompassed social justice activists and environmentalists. This study contributes to the existing literature on field formation, the role of social movements in this process, and political dynamics within social movements. We focus on the importance of hegemony in the institutional processes around field formation by drawing out how Slow Food created a field through the forging of hegemonic links among a range of disparate actors.
The Role of Analogy and Metaphor in the Framing and Legitimization of Strategic Change
Authors: Cornelissen Joep P. , Holt Robin , Zundel Mike
Published: November 2011

Strategic change initiatives disrupt established categories of stakeholder understanding and typically present a problem of justifying and legitimizing the change to stakeholders in order to gain their buy-in and support. While it has been suggested that the analogical or metaphorical framing of strategic changes is crucial in that it fosters understanding and creates legitimacy for the change, we set out to specify the conditions and uses of analogical and metaphorical framing in effecting support for strategic changes. Specifically, we argue that (a) analogies are more effective in the context of additive changes, whereas metaphors are more apt for substitutive changes, and that (b) relational analogies and metaphors are generally more effective in securing support for strategic changes, as opposed to analogies or metaphors that highlight common attributes. We also argue that the overall effectiveness of analogies and metaphors in the framing of a change is furthermore dependent on (c) the degree to which these frames are culturally familiar to stakeholders and (d) the extent to which they connect with the prior motivations of stakeholders.
A Mother With Glandular Hypoplasia and a Late Preterm Infant
Authors: Duran Melissa S. , Spatz Diane L.
Published: November 2011

This case study presents a maternal-infant dyad, both of whom bring risk factors to the breastfeeding relationship. The mother had true glandular hypoplasia that was not detected in the antenatal period or during her hospital stay. In addition, the infant was a late preterm infant, bringing the risks of poor feeding behavior and ineffective removal of milk from the breast as well as limited body reserves. Through the use of breastfeeding technology, including test weights, use of a hospital grade double electric breast pump and use of a nipple shield, in addition to a pharmacologic intervention, in which Domperidone was administered, this mother was able to maximize her milk yield and the infant was able to receive human milk for 6 months. This case report highlights the need for a thorough assessment of the breasts as well as the breastfeeding process in all breastfeeding dyads.
Effects of erdosteine on hemostasis
Authors: Tutanc M , Arica V , Motor S , Basarslan F , Erden ES , Ozturk OH , Zararsiz I , Aydin M
Published: November 2011

Aim: In this study, the effects of erdosteine (ED) on the platelet function and coagulation were investigated in adult rats. Materials and Method: Twenty-eight male Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups. The control rats in group I ( n = 7) were given only 0.5 cc of normal saline daily through oral gavage. Group II ( n = 7) rats were administered 3 mg/kg ED through oral gavage for 3 days; while group III ( n = 7) rats were given 10 mg/kg ED through oral gavage for 3 days; and group IV ( n = 7) rats were administered 30 mg/kg ED through oral gavage for 3 days. Prothrombin time (PT), activated prothromboplastin time (aPTT), international normalized ratio (INR), coagulation factors and complete blood counts were measured from the blood drawn. Results: There were a lot of differences between ED groups and control group, and among ED groups. The found differences were level of PT, aPTT, INR, coagulation factors, and number of platelets. Discussion: We consider that ED which is used as a mucolytic agent in child clinics may affect hemostasis and coagulation in a dose-dependent manner. ED should be used carefully by the patients with coagulation disorders, since there is no information available in the package insert and literature screening regarding the effect of ED.
Piecewise mixed-effects models with skew distributions for evaluating viral load changes: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Huang Yangxin , Dagne Getachew A , Zhou Shumin , Wang Zhongjun
Published: November 2011

Studies of human immunodeficiency virus dynamics in acquired immuno deficiency syndrome (AIDS) research are very important in evaluating the effectiveness of antiretroviral (ARV) therapies. The potency of ARV agents in AIDS clinical trials can be assessed on the basis of a viral response such as viral decay rate or viral load change in plasma. Following ARV treatment, the profile of each subject's viral load tends to follow a ‘broken stick’-like dynamic trajectory, indicating multiple phases of decline and increase in viral loads. Such multiple-phases (change-points) can be described by a random change-point model with random subject-specific parameters. One usually assumes a normal distribution for model error. However, this assumption may be unrealistic, obscuring important features of within- and among-subject variations. In this article, we propose piecewise linear mixed-effects models with skew-elliptical distributions to describe the time trend of a response variable under a Bayesian framework. This methodology can be widely applied to real problems for longitudinal studies. A real data analysis, using viral load data from an AIDS study, is carried out to illustrate the proposed method by comparing various candidate models. Biologically important findings are reported, and these findings also suggest that it is very important to assume a model with skew distribution in order to achieve reliable results, in particular, when the data exhibit skewness.
Climate change, science and community
Authors: Kim Hak-Soo
Published: November 2011

Climate change offers serious challenges to the effectiveness of science, communication, and community. It demands us to look back upon what we have done in regard to science and technology. In addition, it leads us to examine human efforts invested to solve collective, shared problems by communication and community. The process of behavior per se is found to be greatly overlooked in the establishment sciences, both natural and social, and in both theory and practice. A theory of behavior is introduced and explicated as a platform to solve such commons’ problems as climate change. Finally, we find principled ways to improve effectiveness of communication and community by developing human capabilities so that we can win our battle against climate change and other potential tragedies of the commons.
Foamed-metal reinforced material: tribological behaviours of foamed-copper filled with polytetrafluoroethylene and graphite
Authors: Ji Keju , Xia Yanqiu , Wang Hongling , Dai Zhendong
Published: November 2011

A novel foamed copper based (FCB) composite is developed as a rubbing pair material. The composites consist of the foamed copper and solid lubricants, such as polytetrafluoroethylene and graphite. Four kinds of FCB composites were fabricated by vacuum filtration, compression moulding, and sintering process in an orderly manner. The thermal and electrical conductivities and tribological properties of the new composites were investigated. Because the interconnected metal skeletons have been embedded in the polymers, the FCB composites possess excellent thermal and electrical conductivities, including nice self-lubricating property. The friction and wear properties were investigated on an M-2000 friction and wear tester. An electric field was imposed between the sample and ring to monitor the tribo-chemical reaction and formation of transfer film by means of ‘contact resistance’. The measurements of friction temperatures were carried out by means of three thermocouples embedded in the material. The friction tests show that the friction coefficients of the FCB composites decrease almost monotonically with the increase of graphite content under different conditions; and the wear rates decrease overall compared with that of the homologous polymers, more obvious especially under severe conditions. The optical microscope, SEM, and XPS were adopted to study the worn surface morphologies and the transfer films. The main wear mechanism of the new composite is a three-body abrasion, caused and promoted by the plastic deformation, abrasive wear, and fatigue spalling. The oxidation of copper is the dominant chemical processes which occurred during the sliding process.
‘O Effeminacy! Effeminacy!’ War, masculinity and the myth of liberal peace
Authors: Neocleous Mark
Published: November 2011

This article challenges a received wisdom in the liberal peace thesis, namely that the roots of the conjunction of liberalism and peace can be traced back to the idea of an essentially pacific commercial civil society in the 18th-century Scottish Enlightenment. The article instead shows that the Scottish Enlightenment was committed to the idea of military virtue. Textual analysis of the work of Adam Smith and Adam Ferguson reveals a deep and abiding commitment to martial values. The article explores this commitment via an account of the rise of concerns over ‘effeminacy’ in the 18th century, understood as a threat to both military virtue and masculine strength. In exploring these ideas the article claims that IR has helped perpetuate one of today’s key political myths: that liberalism is committed to peace.
Consequences of Large-scale Production of Marijuana in Residential Buildings
Authors: Johnson Luke I. , Miller J. David
Published: November 2011

Based on the data from the breadth of Canada (∼4300 km), one-third of Canadian homes have ventilation rates below the recommended standard of 0.3 air changes per hour and are at risk for moisture problems. For the purposes of this investigation, a literature review was performed on the health risks associated with exposure to living and drying marijuana plants and the fungi associated with large numbers of indoor plantings. Analysis was made of the impact on Canadian homes if used to grow marijuana. These are commonly called “marijuana grow operations” based on measured ventilation rates from homes in Windsor, Ontario and Regina, Saskatchewan (representing diverse climates) and derived moisture loadings from published data. The growing and drying of marijuana plants contributes considerable amounts of water vapour to the indoor environment. Depending on the scale of production, considerable mould damage in the building can result. There are also a number of abiotic hazards resulting from marijuana production including pesticides, carbon monoxide, and products of unvented combustion appliances. Both indirect and direct evidence are described for the health impact of living in these conditions. This has a number of implications in terms of documentation and personal protection for industrial hygienists, home inspectors, and public health officials.
Citizen video journalists and authority in narrative: Reviving the role of the witness
Authors: Bock Mary Angela
Published: November 2011

New media technologies allow for unprecedented participation in the public sphere, with financial investments on a par with other mainstream hobbies. Citizen video journalists (VJs) are acquiring the technical, and in some cases, narrative skills needed to participate in online discourse. Yet citizen VJs lack the institutional authority enjoyed by professional journalists. This project compares the narrative strategies employed by professional and non-professional VJs to assert their authority. Practitioners were observed in a variety of professional and activist contexts in the UK and the USA over the course of two years and their stories were subjected to textual analysis. The project identifies emerging strategies used by citizen VJs to establish authority.
When knowledges meet: Engagements with clay and soil in southern Africa
Authors: Fredriksen Per Ditlef
Published: November 2011

In what ways do meetings between differing knowledges of the material world involve change to people's engagements with their immediate, everyday surroundings? And may our insights from studies of such dynamics inform archaeological thinking and practice in fruitful ways without unwillingly projecting ideas and concepts specific to western post-Enlightenment thinking? By combining archaeological and anthropological insights with African philosophical critique, this article presents an approach which aims to enable understanding of the materiality of dwelled-in spaces which is context dependent, seeks symmetry in human/non-human interaction instead of asymmetry, contests the continued prioritizing of cognitive dimensions of knowledge, and acknowledges feminist and Africanist critique of universalist notions of science. Sensitive to epistemological and ethical concerns with ethnoarchaeology, the article discusses certain contrasts that emerged from two field studies in Botswana, and how these insights may inform our archaeological interpretations of the Later Iron Age in southern Africa.
Dealing with difficult heritage: The case of Bückeberg, site of the Third Reich Harvest Festival
Authors: Burström Mats , Gelderblom Bernhard
Published: November 2011

From 1933 to 1937 the German National Socialist (Nazi) Party arranged an annual harvest festival at Bückeberg, close to the city of Hamelin. The festival was one of the symbolically most important celebrations in the Third Reich; at its height, more than one million people are reported to have gathered there. A special arena, designed by Albert Speer, was built to handle the large number of participants. Although extensive remains of this arena have survived, local feeling has prevented them from receiving official recognition as a historical monument. This article presents the Bückeberg siteand discusses the responsibilities of heritage professionals towards sites which may have significance as testimony to the past but which are not actively championed by the public.
A patchwork of people, pots and places: Material engagements and the construction of ‘the social’ in Hamwic (Anglo-Saxon Southampton), UK
Authors: Jervis Ben
Published: November 2011

This study investigates how engagements with objects are active in the construction of a ‘social assemblage’, drawing on influences from work on ‘symmetrical archaeology’ and Actor-Network Theory. This interpretive perspective is explored through a case study, investigating the pottery consumed in Anglo-Saxon Southampton, demonstrating how engagements through exchange, use and deposition were active in creating a patchwork of connections which came together to create a distinct social assemblage. In particular, the article considers the multitude of ways that pottery and people were categorized through material engagements and the interpretive and methodological challenges that this presents to archaeology as a whole.
Isolated Hyoid Bone Fractures in Collegiate Football Players
Authors: Cutuk Adnan , Bissell Ben , Schmidt Paul , Miller Bruce
Published: November 2011

Hyoid fractures in athletes are rare injuries that can be difficult to diagnose. Typically resulting from a direct blow to the anterior neck, hyoid fractures can lead to subcutaneous edema and subsequent airway compromise. The treatment of this fracture depends largely on the severity of the presenting symptoms. Generally, these fractures do not require surgical intervention but warrant close observation for delayed onset of airway obstruction. To raise awareness of this potentially dangerous fracture, the authors present 2 cases of isolated hyoid fractures in collegiate football players at our institution.
When Closing the Human–Animal Divide Expands Moral Concern
Authors: Bastian Brock , Costello Kimberly , Loughnan Steve , Hodson Gordon
Published: November 2011

Humans and animals share many similarities. Across three studies, the authors demonstrate that the framing of these similarities has significant consequences for people’s moral concern for others. Comparing animals to humans expands moral concern and reduces speciesism; however, comparing humans to animals does not appear to produce these same effects. The authors find these differences when focusing on natural tendencies to frame human–animal similarities (Study 1) and following experimental induction of framings (Studies 2 and 3). In Study 3, the authors extend their focus from other animals to marginalized human outgroups, demonstrating that human–animal similarity framing also has consequences for the extension of moral concern to other humans. The authors explain these findings by reference to previous work examining the effects of framing on judgments of similarity and self-other comparisons and discuss them in relation to the promotion of animal welfare and the expansion of moral concern.
Structural and evolutionary divergence of eukaryotic protein kinases in Apicomplexa
Authors: Talevich Eric , Mirza Amar , Kannan Natarajan
Published: November 2011

Background

The Apicomplexa constitute an evolutionarily divergent phylum of protozoan pathogens responsible for widespread parasitic diseases such as malaria and toxoplasmosis. Many cellular functions in these medically important organisms are controlled by protein kinases, which have emerged as promising drug targets for parasitic diseases. However, an incomplete understanding of how apicomplexan kinases structurally and mechanistically differ from their host counterparts has hindered drug development efforts to target parasite kinases.

Results

We used the wealth of sequence data recently made available for 15 apicomplexan species to identify the kinome of each species and quantify the evolutionary constraints imposed on each family of apicomplexan kinases. Our analysis revealed lineage-specific adaptations in selected families, namely cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK), calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK) and CLK/LAMMER, which have been identified as important in the pathogenesis of these organisms. Bayesian analysis of selective constraints imposed on these families identified the sequence and structural features that most distinguish apicomplexan protein kinases from their homologs in model organisms and other eukaryotes. In particular, in a subfamily of CDKs orthologous toPlasmodium falciparumcrk-5, the activation loop contains a novel PTxC motif which is absent from all CDKs outside Apicomplexa. Our analysis also suggests a convergent mode of regulation in a subset of apicomplexan CDPKs and mammalian MAPKs involving a commonly conserved arginine in theαC helix. In all recognized apicomplexan CLKs, we find a set of co-conserved residues involved in substrate recognition and docking that are distinct from metazoan CLKs.

Conclusions

We pinpoint key conserved residues that can be predicted to mediate functional differences from eukaryotic homologs in three identified kinase families. We discuss the structural, functional and evolutionary implications of these lineage-specific variations and propose specific hypotheses for experimental investigation. The apicomplexan-specific kinase features reported in this study can be used in the design of selective kinase inhibitors.
Development of genomic resources for the narrow-leafed lupin (Lupinus angustifolius): construction of a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) library and BAC-end sequencing
Authors: Gao Ling-Ling , Hane James K , Kamphuis Lars G , Foley Rhonda , Shi Bu-Jun , Atkins Craig A , Singh Karam B
Published: November 2011

Background

Lupinus angustifoliusL, also known as narrow-leafed lupin (NLL), is becoming an important grain legume crop that is valuable for sustainable farming and is becoming recognised as a potential human health food. Recent interest is being directed at NLL to improve grain production, disease and pest management and health benefits of the grain. However, studies have been hindered by a lack of extensive genomic resources for the species.

Results

A NLL BAC library was constructed consisting of 111,360 clones with an average insert size of 99.7 Kbp fromcvTanjil. The library has approximately 12 × genome coverage. Both ends of 9600 randomly selected BAC clones were sequenced to generate 13985 BAC end-sequences (BESs), covering approximately 1% of the NLL genome. These BESs permitted a preliminary characterisation of the NLL genome such as organisation and composition, with the BESs having approximately 39% G:C content, 16.6% repetitive DNA and 5.4% putative gene-encoding regions. From the BESs 9966 simple sequence repeat (SSR) motifs were identified and some of these are shown to be potential markers.

Conclusions

The NLL BAC library and BAC-end sequences are powerful resources for genetic and genomic research on lupin. These resources will provide a robust platform for future high-resolution mapping, map-based cloning, comparative genomics and assembly of whole-genome sequencing data for the species.
Insight into cross-talk between intra-amoebal pathogens
Authors: Gimenez Gregory , Bertelli Claire , Moliner Claire , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Fournier Pierre-Edouard , Greub Gilbert
Published: November 2011

Background

Amoebae are phagocytic protists where genetic exchanges might take place between amoeba-resistant bacteria. These amoebal pathogens are able to escape the phagocytic behaviour of their host. They belong to different bacterial phyla and often show a larger genome size than human-infecting pathogens. This characteristic is proposed to be the result of frequent gene exchanges with other bacteria that share a sympatric lifestyle and contrasts with the genome reduction observed among strict human pathogens.

Results

We sequenced the genome of a new amoebal pathogen, Legionella drancourtii, and compared its gene content to that of a Chlamydia- related bacterium, Parachlamydia acanthamoebae. Phylogenetic reconstructions identified seven potential horizontal gene transfers (HGTs) between the two amoeba-resistant bacteria, including a complete operon of four genes that encodes an ABC-type transporter. These comparisons pinpointed potential cases of gene exchange between P. acanthamoebae and Legionella pneumophila, as well as gene exchanges between other members of the Legionellales and Chlamydiales orders. Moreover, nine cases represent possible HGTs between representatives from the Legionellales or Chlamydiales and members of the Rickettsiales order.

Conclusions

This study identifies numerous gene exchanges between intracellular Legionellales and Chlamydiales bacteria, which could preferentially occur within common inclusions in their amoebal hosts. Therefore it contributes to improve our knowledge on the intra-amoebal gene properties associated to their specific lifestyle.
Assessing diversity of the female urine microbiota by high throughput sequencing of 16S rDNA amplicons
Authors: Siddiqui Huma , Nederbragt Alexander J , Lagesen Karin , Jeansson Stig L , Jakobsen Kjetill S
Published: November 2011

Background

Urine within the urinary tract is commonly regarded as "sterile" in cultivation terms. Here, we present a comprehensive in-depth study of bacterial 16S rDNA sequences associated with urine from healthy females by means of culture-independent high-throughput sequencing techniques.

Results

Sequencing of the V1V2 and V6 regions of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene using the 454 GS FLX system was performed to characterize the possible bacterial composition in 8 culture-negative (<100,000 CFU/ml) healthy female urine specimens. Sequences were compared to 16S rRNA databases and showed significant diversity, with the predominant genera detected being Lactobacillus, Prevotella and Gardnerella. The bacterial profiles in the female urine samples studied were complex; considerable variation between individuals was observed and a common microbial signature was not evident. Notably, a significant amount of sequences belonging to bacteria with a known pathogenic potential was observed. The number of operational taxonomic units (OTUs) for individual samples varied substantially and was in the range of 20 - 500.

Conclusions

Normal female urine displays a noticeable and variable bacterial 16S rDNA sequence richness, which includes fastidious and anaerobic bacteria previously shown to be associated with female urogenital pathology.
Sexual risk taking behaviour: prevalence and associated factors. A population-based study of 22 000 Danish men
Authors: Buttmann Nina , Nielsen Ann , Munk Christian , Liaw Kai L , Kjaer Susanne K
Published: November 2011

Background

Sexual habits and risky sexual behaviour strongly affect public health. Available data indicate that sexually transmitted infections are increasing in many EU countries. Changes in the epidemiology of sexually transmitted diseases across Europe are among other factors suggested to be driven by changes in sexual behaviour patterns. The purpose of our study is to assess the occurrence of risky behaviour in men aged 18-45 years from the general population. Furthermore, we aim to examine factors associated with risky sexual behaviour.

Methods

A random sample of 33 000 Danish men (18-45 years) was selected from the general population. The participants (participation-rate: 71.0%) received a self-administered questionnaire which could be returned in a paper-based version or as a web-based questionnaire. Non-respondents were subsequently asked to participate in a telephone interview with the same questions as in the paper- or web-based questionnaire. We defined risky sexual behaviour as > 8 lifetime sexual partners, ≥2 new sexual partners in the past 6 months and intercourse with a commercial sex worker.

Results

The Danish men reported having had sexual intercourse with a median of 8 female partners during their lifetime and 9.8% of the men have had ≥2 new sexual partners in the past 6 months. Sexual intercourse with a commercial sex worker was reported by 11.3% of the men. Furthermore, men reporting > 8 lifetime partners or ≥2 recent sex partners were more likely to have other risk taking behaviours such as early sexual debut, current smoking and regular binge drinking. A similar pattern was seen in men who had sex with a commercial sex worker.

Conclusions

Our results show that a high proportion of Danish men have had sexual contact with a large number of partners, and risky sexual behaviour is closely related to other risk-taking behaviours such as smoking and binge drinking.
Correspondence between salivary proteomic pattern and clinical course in primary Sjögren syndrome and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: a case report
Authors: Baldini Chiara , Giusti Laura , Ciregia Federica , Da Valle Ylenia , Giacomelli Camillo , Donadio Elena , Ferro Francesco , Galimberti Sara , Donati Valentina , Bazzichi Laura , Bombardieri Stefano , Lucacchini Antonio
Published: November 2011

Background

In the last years human proteomic has represented a promising tool to promote the communication between basic and clinical science.

Methods

To explore the correspondence between salivary proteomic profile and clinical response, herein, we used a proteomic approach to analyse the whole saliva of a patient with primary Sjögren's Syndrome (pSS) and non-Hodgkin's-MALT type parotid lymphoma before, during and after a standard treatment with cyclophosphamide (CTX) and rituximab (RTX). To identify any discriminatory therapeutic salivary biomarker patient's whole saliva was collected at the baseline, after the fourth infusion of rituximab, and on remission and analysed combining two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry.

Results

Proteomic results obtained from the comparison of salivary samples indicated several qualitative and quantitative modifications in the salivary expression of putative albumin, immunoglobulin J chain, Ig kappa chain C region, alpha-1-antitrypsin, haptoglobin and Ig alpha-1 chain C region.

Conclusion

This study suggests that clinical and functional changes of the salivary glands driven by autoimmune and lymphoproliferative processes might be reflected in patients' whole saliva proteins, shedding new light on the potential usefulness of salivary proteomic analysis in the identification of prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers for patients with pSS and non Hodgkin's lymphomas.
RNA interference-based resistance against a legume mastrevirus
Authors: Nahid Nazia , Amin Imran , Briddon Rob W , Mansoor Shahid
Published: November 2011

Background

RNA interference (RNAi) is a homology-dependant gene silencing mechanism and has been widely used to engineer resistance in plants against RNA viruses. However, its usefulness in delivering resistance against plant DNA viruses belonging to family Geminiviridae is still being debated. Although the RNAi approach has been shown, using a transient assay, to be useful in countering monocotyledonous plant-infecting geminiviruses of the genus Mastrevirus, it has yet to be investigated as a means of delivering resistance to dicot-infecting mastreviruses. Chickpea chlorotic dwarf Pakistan virus (CpCDPKV) is a legume-infecting mastrevirus that affects chickpea and other leguminous crops in Pakistan.

Results

Here a hairpin (hp)RNAi construct containing sequences encompassing part of replication-associated protein gene, intergenic region and part of the movement protein gene of CpCDPKV under the control of the Cauliflower mosaic virus 35S promoter has been produced and stably transformed into Nicotiana benthamiana. Plants harboring the hairpin construct were challenged with CpCDPKV. All non-transgenic N. benthamiana plants developed symptoms of CpCDPKV infection within two weeks post-inoculation. In contrast, none of the inoculated transgenic plants showed symptoms of infection and no viral DNA could be detected by Southern hybridization. A real-time quantitative PCR analysis identified very low-level accumulation of viral DNA in the inoculated transgenic plants.

Conclusions

The results presented show that the RNAi-based resistance strategy is useful in protecting plants from a dicot-infecting mastrevirus. The very low levels of virus detected in plant tissue of transgenic plants distal to the inoculation site suggest that virus movement and/or viral replication was impaired leading to plants that showed no discernible signs of virus infection.
Concurrent nephrotic syndrome and acute renal failure caused by chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL): a case report and literature review
Authors: Dou Xianrui , Hu Haitang , Ju Yongle , Liu Yongdong , Kang Kaifu , Zhou Shufeng , Chen Wenfang
Published: November 2011

Kidney injury associated with lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is typically caused by direct tumor infiltration which occasionally results in acute renal failure. Glomerular involvement presenting as proteinuria or even nephrotic syndrome is exceptionally rare. Here we report a case of 54-year-old male CLL patient with nephrotic syndrome and renal failure. The lymph node biopsy confirmed that the patients had CLL with remarkable immunoglobulin light chain amyloid deposition. The renal biopsy demonstrated the concurrence of AL amyloidosis and neoplastic infiltration. Combined treatment of fludarabine, cyclophosphamide and rituximab resulted in remission of CLL, as well as the renal disfunction and nephrotic syndrome, without recurrence during a 12-month follow-up. To our knowledge, this is the first case of CLL patient showing the nephrotic syndrome and acute renal failure caused by AL amyloidosis and neoplastic infiltration. Though AL amyloidosis caused by plasma cell dyscrasia usually responses poorly to chemotherapy, this patient exhibited a satisfactory clinical outcome due to successful inhibition of the production of amylodogenic light chains by combined chemotherapy.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/2479639195566762.
Oral ezatiostat HCl (Telintra®, TLK199) and Idiopathic Chronic Neutropenia (ICN): a case report of complete response of a patient with G-CSF resistant ICN following treatment with ezatiostat, a glutathione S-transferase P1-1 (GSTP1-1) inhibitor
Authors: Lyons Roger M , Wilks Sharon T , Young Shelby , Brown Gail L
Published: November 2011

Idiopathic chronic neutropenia (ICN) describes a heterogeneous group of hematologic diseases characterized by low circulating neutrophil levels often associated with recurrent fevers, chronic mucosal inflammation, and severe systemic infections. The severity and risk of complications, including serious infections, are inversely proportional to the absolute neutrophil count (ANC), with the greatest problems occurring in patients with an ANC of less than 0.5 × 109/L. This case report describes a 64-year-old female with longstanding rheumatoid arthritis who subsequently developed ICN with frequent episodes of sepsis requiring hospitalization and prolonged courses of antibiotics over a 4-year period. She was treated with granulocyte colony stimulating factors (G-CSF) but had a delayed, highly variable, and volatile response. She was enrolled in a clinical trial evaluating the oral investigational agent ezatiostat. Ezatiostat, a glutathione S-transferase P1-1 inhibitor, activates Jun kinase, promoting the growth and maturation of hematopoietic progenitor stem cells. She responded by the end of the first month of treatment with stabilization of her ANC (despite tapering and then stopping G-CSF), clearing of fever, and healing of areas of infection. This ANC response to ezatiostat treatment has now been sustained for over 8 months and continues. These results suggest potential roles for ezatiostat in the treatment of patients with ICN who are not responsive to G-CSF, as an oral therapy alternative, or as an adjunct to G-CSF, and further studies are warranted.
Spermatogonia Differentiation Requires Retinoic Acid Receptor γ
Authors: Gely-Pernot Aurore , Raverdeau Mathilde , Célébi Catherine , Dennefeld Christine , Feret Betty , Klopfenstein Muriel , Yoshida Shosei , Ghyselinck Norbert B. , Mark Manuel
Published: November 2011

Vitamin A is instrumental to mammalian reproduction. Its metabolite, retinoic acid (RA), acts in a hormone-like manner through binding to and activating three nuclear receptor isotypes, RA receptor (RAR)α (RARA), RARβ, and RARγ (RARG). Here, we show that 1) RARG is expressed by A aligned (Aal) spermatogonia, as well as during the transition from Aal to A1 spermatogonia, which is known to require RA; and 2) ablation of Rarg, either in the whole mouse or specifically in spermatogonia, does not affect meiosis and spermiogenesis but impairs the Aal to A1 transition in the course of some of the seminiferous epithelium cycles. Upon ageing, this phenomenon yields seminiferous tubules containing only spermatogonia and Sertoli cells. Altogether, our findings indicate that RARG cell-autonomously transduces, in undifferentiated spermatogonia of adult testes, a RA signal critical for spermatogenesis. During the prepubertal spermatogenic wave, the loss of RARG function can however be compensated by RARA, as indicated by the normal timing of appearance of meiotic cells in Rarg-null testes. Accordingly, RARG- and RARA-selective agonists are both able to stimulate Stra8 expression in wild-type prepubertal testes. Interestingly, inactivation of Rarg does not impair expression of the spermatogonia differentiation markers Kit and Stra8, contrary to vitamin A deficiency. This latter observation supports the notion that the RA-signaling pathway previously shown to operate in Sertoli cells also participates in spermatogonia differentiation.
Mutation of zebrafish dihydrolipoamide branched-chain transacylase E2 results in motor dysfunction and models maple syrup urine disease
Authors: Friedrich Timo , Lambert Aaron M. , Masino Mark A. , Downes Gerald B.
Published: November 2011

Analysis of zebrafish mutants that demonstrate abnormal locomotive behavior can elucidate the molecular requirements for neural network function and provide new models of human disease. Here, we show that zebrafish quetschkommode (que) mutant larvae exhibit a progressive locomotor defect that culminates in unusual nose-to-tail compressions and an inability to swim. Correspondingly, extracellular peripheral nerve recordings show that que mutants demonstrate abnormal locomotor output to the axial muscles used for swimming. Using positional cloning and candidate gene analysis, we reveal that a point mutation disrupts the gene encoding dihydrolipoamide branched-chain transacylase E2 (Dbt), a component of a mitochondrial enzyme complex, to generate the que phenotype. In humans, mutation of the DBT gene causes maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), a disorder of branched-chain amino acid metabolism that can result in mental retardation, severe dystonia, profound neurological damage and death. que mutants harbor abnormal amino acid levels, similar to MSUD patients and consistent with an error in branched-chain amino acid metabolism. que mutants also contain markedly reduced levels of the neurotransmitter glutamate within the brain and spinal cord, which probably contributes to their abnormal spinal cord locomotor output and aberrant motility behavior, a trait that probably represents severe dystonia in larval zebrafish. Taken together, these data illustrate how defects in branched-chain amino acid metabolism can disrupt nervous system development and/or function, and establish zebrafish que mutants as a model to better understand MSUD.
Ligand of Numb proteins LNX1p80 and LNX2 interact with the human glycoprotein CD8α and promote its ubiquitylation and endocytosis
Authors: D'Agostino Massimo , Tornillo Giusy , Caporaso Maria Gabriella , Barone Maria Vittoria , Ghigo Eric , Bonatti Stefano , Mottola Giovanna
Published: November 2011

E3 ubiquitin ligases give specificity to the ubiquitylation process by selectively binding substrates. Recently, their function has emerged as a crucial modulator of T-cell tolerance and immunity. However, substrates, partners and mechanism of action for most E3 ligases remain largely unknown. In this study, we identified the human T-cell co-receptor CD8 α-chain as binding partner of the ligand of Numb proteins X1 (LNX1p80 isoform) and X2 (LNX2). Both LNX mRNAs were found expressed in T cells purified from human blood, and both proteins interacted with CD8α in human HPB-ALL T cells. By using an in vitro assay and a heterologous expression system we showed that the interaction is mediated by the PDZ (PSD95-DlgA-ZO-1) domains of LNX proteins and the cytosolic C-terminal valine motif of CD8α. Moreover, CD8α redistributed LNX1 or LNX2 from the cytosol to the plasma membrane, whereas, remarkably, LNX1 or LNX2 promoted CD8α ubiquitylation, downregulation from the plasma membrane, transport to the lysosomes, and degradation. Our findings highlight the function of LNX proteins as E3 ligases and suggest a mechanism of regulation for CD8α localization at the plasma membrane by ubiquitylation and endocytosis.