bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resting pulmonary haemodynamics and shunting: a comparison of sea‐level inhabitants to high altitude Sherpas
Authors: Foster Glen E. , Ainslie Philip N. , Stembridge Mike , Day Trevor A. , Bakker Akke , Lucas Samuel J. E. , Lewis Nia C. S. , MacLeod David B. , Lovering Andrew T.
Published: January 2014

Key points

Evolutionary pressure to improve gas exchange and/or resting pulmonary haemodynamics in hypoxic environments may have led to differences in the amount of blood that flows through right‐to‐left shunt pathways between Sherpas and sea‐level inhabitants.

We studied sea‐level inhabitants during rest at sea level and acute isocapnic hypoxia and during rest at high altitude following 3 weeks of acclimatization and compared their responses to those of Sherpas during rest at high altitude.

Contrary to some previous literature, we found similar resting pulmonary pressure and total pulmonary resistance between acclimatized sea‐level inhabitants and Sherpas at high altitude.

We also found a similar number of subjects from each group with intracardiac shunt and intrapulmonary shunt at high altitude.

These results help us better understand resting cardiopulmonary adaptations to high altitude by comparing life‐long high altitude residents with sea‐level inhabitants acclimatized to high altitude.

The incidence of blood flow through intracardiac shunt and intrapulmonary arteriovenous anastomoses (IPAVA) may differ between Sherpas permanently residing at high altitude (HA) and sea‐level (SL) inhabitants as a result of evolutionary pressure to improve gas exchange and/or resting pulmonary haemodynamics. To test this hypothesis we compared sea‐level inhabitants at SL (SL‐SL; n = 17), during acute isocapnic hypoxia (SL‐HX; n = 7) and following 3 weeks at 5050 m (SL‐HA; n = 8 non‐PFO subjects) to Sherpas at 5050 m (n = 14). , heart rate, pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) and cardiac index (Qi) were measured during 5 min of room air breathing at SL and HA, during 20 min of isocapnic hypoxia (SL‐HX; = 47 mmHg) and during 5 min of hyperoxia ( = 1.0; Sherpas only). Intracardiac shunt and IPAVA blood flow was evaluated by agitated saline contrast echocardiography. Although PASP was similar between groups at HA (Sherpas: 30.0 ± 6.0 mmHg; SL‐HA: 32.7 ± 4.2 mmHg; P = 0.27), it was greater than SL‐SL (19.4 ± 2.1 mmHg; P < 0.001). The proportion of subjects with intracardiac shunt was similar between groups (SL‐SL: 41%; Sherpas: 50%). In the remaining subjects, IPAVA blood flow was found in 100% of subjects during acute isocapnic hypoxia at SL, but in only 4 of 7 Sherpas and 1 of 8 SL‐HA subjects at rest. In conclusion, differences in resting pulmonary vascular regulation, intracardiac shunt and IPAVA blood flow do not appear to account for any adaptation to HA in Sherpas. Despite elevated pulmonary pressures and profound hypoxaemia, IPAVA blood flow in all subjects at HA was lower than expected compared to acute normobaric hypoxia.
Integrative regulation of human brain blood flow
Authors: Willie Christopher K. , Tzeng Yu‐Chieh , Fisher Joseph A. , Ainslie Philip N.
Published: January 2014

Herein, we review mechanisms regulating cerebral blood flow (CBF), with specific focus on humans. We revisit important concepts from the older literature and describe the interaction of various mechanisms of cerebrovascular control. We amalgamate this broad scope of information into a brief review, rather than detailing any one mechanism or area of research. The relationship between regulatory mechanisms is emphasized, but the following three broad categories of control are explicated: (1) the effect of blood gases and neuronal metabolism on CBF; (2) buffering of CBF with changes in blood pressure, termed cerebral autoregulation; and (3) the role of the autonomic nervous system in CBF regulation. With respect to these control mechanisms, we provide evidence against several canonized paradigms of CBF control. Specifically, we corroborate the following four key theses: (1) that cerebral autoregulation does not maintain constant perfusion through a mean arterial pressure range of 60–150 mmHg; (2) that there is important stimulatory synergism and regulatory interdependence of arterial blood gases and blood pressure on CBF regulation; (3) that cerebral autoregulation and cerebrovascular sensitivity to changes in arterial blood gases are not modulated solely at the pial arterioles; and (4) that neurogenic control of the cerebral vasculature is an important player in autoregulatory function and, crucially, acts to buffer surges in perfusion pressure. Finally, we summarize the state of our knowledge with respect to these areas, outline important gaps in the literature and suggest avenues for future research.
A Combination of Physical and Cognitive Exercise Improves Reaction Time in Persons 61–84 Years Old
Authors: León Julia , Ureña Aurelio , Bolaños Manuel Jorge , Bilbao Alfonso , Oña Antonio
Published: January 2014

We have compared the effects of different 12-week exercise programs on simple and choice reaction and movement times in persons 61 to 84 years old. One hundred thirty-eight volunteers were randomized to either a control group, a two-day exercise group (two 60-min sessions a week of aerobic exercises), or a two-day physical plus cognitive exercise group (two 60-min sessions a week of aerobic and cognitive exercises). At follow-up, the aerobic and cognitive exercise program was found to have resulted in significant positive effects. Improvements were found in the two-day physical plus cognitive exercise group in all of the reaction parameters, particularly improvement in choice reaction time, which is used in most daily activities. Our results suggest that to improve reaction time values, it is advisable to include cognitive features into a physical exercise routine.
In Vitro
Efficacy of a Novel Active-Release Antimicrobial Coating To Eradicate Biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Williams Dustin L. , Lerdahl Julia M. , Haymond Bryan S. , Bloebaum Roy D.
Published: January 2014

Implant-related infections are becoming increasingly difficult to treat due to the formation of biofilms on implant surfaces. This study analyzed the
in vitro
efficacy of a novel antimicrobial coating against biofilms of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, using a flow cell system. Results indicated that
P. aeruginosa
biofilms were reduced by greater than 8 log
10
units in less than 24 h. Data indicated that this active-release coating may be promising for preventing biofilm implant-related infections.
Real-World Experience with Echinocandin MICs against Candida Species in a Multicenter Study of Hospitals That Routinely Perform Susceptibility Testing of Bloodstream Isolates
Authors: Eschenauer Gregory A. , Nguyen M. Hong , Shoham Shmuel , Vazquez Jose A. , Morris Arthur J. , Pasculle William A. , Kubin Christine J. , Klinker Kenneth P. , Carver Peggy L. , Hanson Kimberly E. , Chen Sharon , Lam Simon W. , Potoski Brian A. , Clarke Lloyd G. , Shields Ryan K. , Clancy Cornelius J.
Published: January 2014

Reference broth microdilution methods of
Candida
echinocandin susceptibility testing are limited by interlaboratory variability in caspofungin MICs. Recently revised Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) breakpoint MICs for echinocandin nonsusceptibility may not be valid for commercial tests employed in hospital laboratories. Indeed, there are limited echinocandin susceptibility testing data from hospital laboratories. We conducted a multicenter retrospective study of 9 U.S., Australian, and New Zealand hospitals that routinely tested
Candida
bloodstream isolates for echinocandin susceptibility from 2005 to 2013. Eight hospitals used Sensititre YeastOne assays. The
Candida
spp. were
C. albicans
(
n
= 1,067),
C. glabrata
(
n
= 911),
C. parapsilosis
(
n
= 476),
C. tropicalis
(
n
= 185),
C. krusei
(
n
= 104), and others (
n
= 154). Resistance and intermediate rates were ≤1.4% and ≤3%, respectively, for each echinocandin against
C. albicans
,
C. parapsilosis
, and
C. tropicalis
. Resistance rates among
C. glabrata
and
C. krusei
isolates were ≤7.5% and ≤5.6%, respectively. Caspofungin intermediate rates among
C. glabrata
and
C. krusei
isolates were 17.8% and 46.5%, respectively, compared to ≤4.3% and ≤4.4% for other echinocandins. Using CLSI breakpoints, 18% and 19% of
C. glabrata
isolates were anidulafungin susceptible/caspofungin nonsusceptible and micafungin susceptible/caspofungin nonsusceptible, respectively; similar discrepancies were observed for 38% and 39% of
C. krusei
isolates. If only YeastOne data were considered, interhospital modal MIC variability was low (within 2 doubling dilutions for each agent). In conclusion, YeastOne assays employed in hospitals may reduce the interlaboratory variability in caspofungin MICs against
Candida
species that are observed between reference laboratories using CLSI broth microdilution methods. The significance of classifying isolates as caspofungin intermediate and anidulafungin/micafungin susceptible will require clarification in future studies.
Extensive Genetic Diversity Identified among Sporadic Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolates Recovered in Irish Hospitals between 2000 and 2012
Authors: Kinnevey Peter M. , Shore Anna C. , Brennan Grainne I. , Sullivan Derek J. , Ehricht Ralf , Monecke Stefan , Coleman David C.
Published: January 2014

Clonal replacement of predominant nosocomial methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) strains has occurred several times in Ireland during the last 4 decades. However, little is known about sporadically occurring MRSA in Irish hospitals or in other countries. Eighty-eight representativepvl-negative sporadic MRSA isolates recovered in Irish hospitals between 2000 and 2012 were investigated. These yielded unusual pulsed-field gel electrophoresis and antibiogram-resistogram typing patterns distinct from those of the predominant nosocomial MRSA clone, ST22-MRSA-IV, during the study period. Isolates were characterized byspatyping and DNA microarray profiling for multilocus sequence type (MLST) clonal complex (CC) and/or sequence type (ST) and SCCmectype assignment, as well as for detection of virulence and antimicrobial resistance genes. Conventional PCR-based SCCmecsubtyping was undertaken when necessary. Extensive diversity was detected, including 38spatypes, 13 MLST-CCs (including 18 STs among 62 isolates assigned to STs), and 25 SCCmectypes (including 2 possible novel SCCmecelements and 7 possible novel SCCmecsubtypes). Fifty-four MLST-spa-SCCmectype combinations were identified. Overall, 68.5% of isolates were assigned to nosocomial lineages, with ST8-t190-MRSA-IID/IIE ± SCCM1predominating (17.4%), followed by CC779/ST779-t878-MRSA-ψSCCmec-SCC-SCCCRISPR(7.6%) and CC22/ST22-t032-MRSA-IVh (5.4%). Community-associated clones, including CC1-t127/t386/t2279-MRSA-IV, CC59-t216-MRSA-V, CC8-t008-MRSA-IVa, and CC5-t002/t242-MRSA-IV/V, and putative animal-associated clones, including CC130-t12399-MRSA-XI, ST8-t064-MRSA-IVa, ST398-t011-MRSA-IVa, and CC6-t701-MRSA-V, were also identified. In total, 53.3% and 47.8% of isolates harbored genes for resistance to two or more classes of antimicrobial agents and two or more mobile genetic element-encoded virulence-associated factors, respectively. Effective ongoing surveillance of sporadic nosocomial MRSA is warranted for early detection of emerging clones and reservoirs of virulence, resistance, and SCCmecgenes.
Finished Genome of Zymomonas mobilis subsp.
mobilis
Strain CP4, an Applied Ethanol Producer
Authors: Kouvelis Vassili N. , Teshima Hazuki , Bruce David , Detter Chris , Tapia Roxanne , Han Cliff , Tampakopoulou Vassileia-Olga , Goodwin Lynne , Woyke Tanja , Kyrpides Nikos C. , Typas Milton A. , Pappas Katherine M.
Published: January 2014

Zymomonas mobilis
subsp.
mobilis
is one of the most rigorous ethanol-producing organisms known to date, considered by many to be the prokaryotic alternative to yeast. The two most applied
Z. mobilis
subsp.
mobilis
strains, ZM4 and CP4, derive from Recife, Brazil, and have been isolated from sugarcane fermentations. Of these, ZM4 was the first
Z. mobilis
representative strain to be sequenced and analyzed. Here, we report the finishing of the genome sequence of strain CP4, which is highly similar but not identical to that of ZM4.
Draft Genome Sequence of
Pseudomonas
sp. Strain 2-92, a Biological Control Strain Isolated from a Field Plot Under Long-Term Mineral Fertilization
Authors: Adam Zaky , Tambong James Tabi , Chen Qing , Lewis Christopher T. , Lévesque C. André , Xu Renlin
Published: January 2014

Pseudomonas
sp. strain 2-92, isolated from a Canadian field plot under long-term mineral fertilization, strongly inhibits the growth of
Fusarium graminearum
,
Rhizoctonia solani
, and
Gaeumannomyces graminis
. Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Pseudomonas
sp. strain 2-92.
Insight into the First Draft Genome Sequence of the Genus
Sediminibacillus
, Sediminibacillus halophilus Strain NSP9.3
Authors: Dey Rinku , Pal Kamal Krishna , Sherathia Dharmesh , Sukhadiya Bhoomika , Dalsania Trupti , Patel Ilaxi , Savsani Kinjal , Thomas Manesh , Vanpariya Sejal , Mandaliya Mona , Rupapara Rupal , Rawal Priya , Ghorai Sucheta , Bhayani Sharmila , Shah Abhi , Saxena Anil Kumar
Published: January 2014

We report the 3.98-Mbp first draft genome sequence of
Sediminibacillus halophilus
strain NSP9.3, a moderate halophile isolated from a seasonal salt marsh of the Great Rann of Kutch, India. Exploring the genome of this organism will facilitate the understanding of the mechanism(s) of osmotolerance and survival in differential osmolarity.
Draft Genome Sequence of Atrazine-Utilizing Bacteria Isolated from Indian Agricultural Soil
Authors: Sagarkar Sneha , Bhardwaj Pooja , Yadav Trilok C. , Qureshi Asifa , Khardenavis Anshuman , Purohit Hemant J. , Kapley Atya
Published: January 2014

We report the draft genome sequences of two tropical bacterial isolates capable of degrading the herbicide atrazine.
Alcaligenes
sp. strain EGD-AK7 and
Arthrobacter
sp. strain AK-YN10 were isolated from Indian agricultural soil in which sugarcane is grown, with a reported history of atrazine use. EGD-AK7 has the
atzABCDEF
genes and AK-YN10 has the
trzN
and
atzBC
genes for atrazine degradation.
Toxoplasma gondii Upregulates Interleukin-12 To Prevent Plasmodium berghei-Induced Experimental Cerebral Malaria
Authors: Settles Erik W. , Moser Lindsey A. , Harris Tajie H. , Knoll Laura J.
Published: January 2014

A chronic infection with the parasiteToxoplasma gondiihas previously been shown to protect mice against subsequent viral, bacterial, or protozoal infections. Here we have shown that a chronicT. gondiiinfection can preventPlasmodium bergheiANKA-induced experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) in C57BL/6 mice. Treatment with solubleT. gondiiantigens (STAg) reduced parasite sequestration and T cell infiltration in the brains ofP. berghei-infected mice. Administration of STAg also preserved blood-brain barrier function, reduced ECM symptoms, and significantly decreased mortality. STAg treatment 24 h post-P. bergheiinfection led to a rapid increase in serum levels of interleukin 12 (IL-12) and gamma interferon (IFN-γ). By 5 days afterP. bergheiinfection, STAg-treated mice had reduced IFN-γ levels compared to those of mock-treated mice, suggesting that reductions in IFN-γ at the time of ECM onset protected against lethality. Using IL-10- and IL-12βR-deficient mice, we found that STAg-induced protection from ECM is IL-10 independent but IL-12 dependent. Treatment ofP. berghei-infected mice with recombinant IL-12 significantly decreased parasitemia and mortality. These data suggest that IL-12, either induced by STAg or injected as a recombinant protein, mediates protection from ECM-associated pathology potentially through early induction of IFN-γ and reduction in parasitemia. These results highlight the importance of early IL-12 induction in protection against ECM.
TREM-1 Promotes Survival during Klebsiella pneumoniae Liver Abscess in Mice
Authors: Lin Yi-Tsung , Tseng Kai-Yu , Yeh Yi-Chen , Yang Fu-Chen , Fung Chang-Phone , Chen Nien-Jung
Published: January 2014

Klebsiella pneumoniae
liver abscess (KPLA) is prevalent in East Asia. Liver abscess can develop after translocation of
K. pneumoniae
from a patient's bowel into the liver via the portal circulation. TREM-1 (
t
riggering
r
eceptor
e
xpressed on
m
yeloid cells
1
) amplifies inflammatory signaling during infection, but its role in KPLA is poorly understood. We used an animal study to characterize the role of TREM-1 in KPLA. We compared survival rates, bacterial burdens in tissues, inflammatory cytokine levels, and histology findings between wild-type and
Trem-1
knockout (KO) mice after oral inoculation of capsular type K1
K. pneumoniae
. Translocation of
K. pneumoniae
to mesenteric lymph nodes and liver was examined, and intestinal permeability, antimicrobial peptide expression, and the clearance of
K. pneumoniae
in the small intestine were determined. In the absence of TREM-1, KPLA model mice showed increased
K. pneumoniae
dissemination, enhanced liver and systemic inflammation, and reduced survival. Impaired bacterial clearance in the small intestine causes enhanced
K. pneumoniae
translocation, which renders
Trem-1
KO mice more susceptible to
K. pneumoniae
oral infection. In conclusion, TREM-1-mediated bacterial clearance in the small intestine is an important immune response against
K. pneumoniae
. TREM-1 deficiency enhances
K. pneumoniae
translocation in the small intestine and increases mortality rates in mice with KPLA.
Sister Mary Joseph's nodule as the first and only sign of recurrence in a case of stage Ia carcinoma ovary
Authors: Gupta Prerna , Kumari Aruna , Kriplani Alka , Bhatla Neerja
Published: January 2014

Sister Mary Joseph's nodule, a term coined by Sir Hamilton Bailey, describes the umbilical nodule associated with advanced intra-abdominal malignancy. It signifies extensive intra-abdominal disease with a poor prognosis and a median survival of 4–14 months. We describe a case in which discharge from umbilical nodule was the first sign of recurrence in carcinoma ovary. On laparotomy, besides extra-abdominal umbilical deposit there was no peritoneal disease.
Maternal and perinatal risk factors for childhood cancer: record linkage study
Authors: Bhattacharya Sohinee , Beasley Marcus , Pang Dong , Macfarlane Gary J
Published: January 2014

Objective

To investigate maternal and perinatal risk factors for childhood cancer.

Study design

Case–control analysis of linked records from the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank with the Scottish Cancer Registry and the General Registry of Births and Deaths in Scotland was carried out.

Setting

Aberdeen, Scotland.

Participants

Cases (n=176) comprised children diagnosed with cancer under 15 years or recorded as having died of cancer. Four controls per case were matched by age and gender.

Risk factors tested

Maternal age, body mass index, social class, marital status and smoking as well as pre-eclampsia, antepartum haemorrhage and previous miscarriage, gestational age, birth weight and Apgar scores were compared between groups to test for association with cancer. ORs with 95% CIs were calculated using conditional logistic regression in univariable and multivariable models.

Results

Of the maternal characteristics tested, mother's age at delivery (cases mean 28.9 (SD 5.6) years vs controls mean 30.2 (SD 4.6), p=0.002) and smoking status (38.6% smokers among cases, 29.7% among controls, p=0.034) were found to be different between groups. Of the perinatal factors tested, low Apgar score at 5 min (adjusted OR (AOR) 4.59, 95% CI 1.52 to 13.87) and delivery by caesarean section (AOR 1.95, 95% CI 1.30 to 2.92) showed statistically significant associations with childhood cancer in the multivariable model.

Conclusions

Younger maternal age, maternal smoking, delivery by caesarean section and low Apgar score at 5 min were independently associated with increased risk of childhood cancer. These general findings should be interpreted with caution as this study did not have the power to detect any association with individual diagnostic categories of childhood cancer.
Direct and indirect economic and health consequences of COPD in Denmark: a national register-based study: 1998–2010
Authors: Løkke Anders , Hilberg Ole , Tønnesen Philip , Ibsen Rikke , Kjellberg Jakob , Jennum Poul
Published: January 2014

Objective

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, but longitudinal studies of the economic consequences of COPD are scarce. This Danish study evaluated for the first time ever the economic consequences of COPD of an entire nation before and after the diagnosis.

Setting

Records from the Danish National Patient Registry (1998–2010), direct and indirect costs, including frequency of primary and secondary sector contacts and procedures, medication, unemployment benefits and social transfer payments were extracted from national databases.

Participants

131 811 patients with COPD were identified and compared with 131 811 randomly selected controls matched for age, gender, educational level, residence and marital status.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Direct and indirect economic and health consequences of COPD in Denmark in the time period 1998–2010.

Results

Patients with COPD had a poor survival. The average (95% CI) 12-year survival rate was 0.364 (0.364 to 0.368) compared with 0.686 among controls (0.682 to 0.690). COPD was associated with significantly higher rates of health-related contacts, medication use and higher socioeconomic costs. The employment and the income rates of employed patients with COPD were significantly lower compared with controls. The annual net costs, including social transfers were €8572 for patients with COPD. These consequences were present up to 11 years before first-time diagnosis in the secondary healthcare sector and became more pronounced with disease advancement.

Conclusions

This study provides unique national data on direct and indirect costs before and after initial diagnosis with COPD in Denmark as well as mortality, health and economic consequences for the individual and for society. It could be speculated that early identification and intervention might contribute to the solution.
An international review of the frequency of single-bicycle crashes (SBCs) and their relation to bicycle modal share
Authors: Schepers Paul , Agerholm Niels , Amoros Emmanuelle , Benington Rob , Bjørnskau Torkel , Dhondt Stijn , de Geus Bas , Hagemeister Carmen , Loo Becky P Y , Niska Anna
Published: January 2014

Objectives

To study cyclists’ share of transport modes (modal share) and single-bicycle crashes (SBCs) in different countries in order to investigate if the proportion of cyclist injuries resulting from SBCs is affected by variation in modal share.

Methods

A literature search identified figures (largely from western countries) on SBC casualties who are fatally injured, hospitalised or treated at an emergency department. Correlation and regression analyses were used to investigate how bicycle modal share is related to SBCs.

Results

On average, 17% of fatal injuries to cyclists are caused by SBCs. Different countries show a range of values between 5% and 30%. Between 60% and 95% of cyclists admitted to hospitals or treated at emergency departments are victims of SBCs. The proportion of all injured cyclists who are injured in SBCs is unrelated to the share of cycling in the modal split. The share of SBC casualties among the total number of road crash casualties increases proportionally less than the increase in bicycle modal share.

Conclusions

While most fatal injuries among cyclists are due to motor vehicle–bicycle crashes, most hospital admissions and emergency department attendances result from SBCs. As found in previous studies of cyclists injured in collisions, this study found that the increase in the number of SBC casualties is proportionally less than the increase in bicycle modal share.
Diagnosis and management of trigemino-cavernous fistulas: case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Miller Timothy R , Jindal Gaurav , Mohan Suyash , Fortes Manuel , Hurst Robert , Pukenas Bryan , Gandhi Dheeraj
Published: January 2014

Although usually asymptomatic, a persistent trigeminal artery (PTA) can rarely be associated with a direct fistula to the cavernous sinus (ie, trigemino-cavernous fistula). We present three patients with trigemino-cavernous fistulas; two were subsequently treated using modern endovascular techniques while the third initially declined therapy. We then review the literature of reported cases of this unusual entity. The aberrant anatomy associated with a PTA presents unique challenges to the management of these lesions, and must be well delineated prior to treatment. Finally, conservative management of trigemino-cavernous fistulas, either de novo or recurrent, may be considered if they demonstrate no evidence of cortical venous reflux and patient symptoms are tolerable.
Recombinant expression of antimicrobial peptides using a novel self-cleaving aggregation tag inEscherichia coli
Authors: Luan Chao , Xie Yong Gang , Pu Yu Tian , Zhang Hai Wen , Han Fei Fei , Feng Jie , Wang Yi Zhen
Published: January 2014

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are part of the innate immune system of complex multicellular organisms. Despite the fact that AMPs show great potential as a novel class of antibiotics, the lack of a cost-effective means for their mass production limits both basic research and clinical use. In this work, we describe a novel expression system for the production of antimicrobial peptides in Escherichia coli by combining ΔI-CM mini-intein with the self-assembling amphipathic peptide 18A to drive the formation of active aggregates. Two AMPs, human β-defensin 2 and LL-37, were fused to the self-cleaving tag and expressed as active protein aggregates. The active aggregates were recovered by centrifugation and the intact antimicrobial peptides were released into solution by an intein-mediated cleavage reaction in cleaving buffer (phosphate-buffered saline supplemented with 40 mmol/L Bis–Tris, 2 mmol/L EDTA, pH 6.2). The peptides were further purified by cation-exchange chromatography. Peptides yields of 0.82 ± 0.24 and 0.59 ± 0.11 mg/L were achieved for human β-defensin 2 and LL-37, respectively, with demonstrated antimicrobial activity. Using our expression system, intact antimicrobial peptides were recovered by simple centrifugation from active protein aggregates after the intein-mediated cleavage reaction. Thus, we provide an economical and efficient way to produce intact antimicrobial peptides in E. coli.
NEAR-OPTIMAL MODIFIED BASE STOCK POLICIES FOR THE CAPACITATED INVENTORY PROBLEM WITH STOCHASTIC DEMAND AND FIXED COST
Authors: ÖZENER OKAN ÖRSAN , GÜLLÜ REFIK , ERKIP NESIM
Published: January 2014

In this study, we investigate a single-item, periodic-review inventory problem where the production capacity is limited and unmet demand is backordered. We assume that customer demand in each period is a stationary, discrete random variable. Linear holding and backorder cost are charged per unit at the end of a period. In addition to the variable cost charged per unit ordered, a positive fixed ordering cost is incurred with each order given. The optimization criterion is the minimization of the expected cost per period over a planning horizon. We investigate the infinite horizon problem by modeling the problem as a discrete-time Markov chain. We propose a heuristic for the problem based on a particular solution of this stationary model, and conduct a computational study on a set of instances, providing insight on the performance of the heuristic.
LINEAR DARK ENERGY EQUATION OF STATE REVEALED BY SUPERNOVAE?
Authors: SALZANO VINCENZO , WANG YUN , SENDRA IRENE , LAZKOZ RUTH
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we propose a test to detect the linearity of the dark energy equation of state, and apply it to the SNLS3 Type Ia Supernova (SN Ia) data set. We find that: (a) current SN Ia data are well described by a dark energy equation of state linear in the cosmic scale factor a, at least up to a redshift z = 1, independent of the pivot points chosen for the linear relation; (b) there is no significant evidence of any deviation from linearity. This apparent linearity may reflect the limit of dark energy information extractable from current SN Ia data.
WAVE PROPAGATION IN RECTANGULAR NANOPLATES BASED ON STRAIN GRADIENT THEORY WITH ONE GRADIENT PARAMETER WITH CONSIDERING INITIAL STRESS
Authors: NAMI MOHAMMAD RAHIM , JANGHORBAN MAZIAR
Published: January 2014

In this paper, on the basis of gradient elasticity theory with one gradient parameter, wave propagation in rectangular nanoplates is studied. In the governing equation, the influences of initial stresses and elastic foundation are also considered. An analytical approach is used to solve the governing equation. The effects of different parameters such as gradient parameter on the circular and cut-off frequencies are presented. One can see that the initial stress and gradient parameter play an important role in investigating the wave propagation in nanoplates.
AN ENERGY-EFFICIENT DEMAND-DRIVEN REGISTER FILE FOR MOBILE GPUs
Authors: HSIAO CHIH-CHIEH , HSIEH CHIU-CHENG , CHU SLO-LI
Published: January 2014

In response to the remarkable increase in 3D applications in mobile devices in recent years, mobile GPUs have become widely available. Although the computation requirements are tremendous of 3D applications, they are highly data parallel operations. Therefore, mobile GPUs are usually hardware multithreaded to increase their throughput and achieve real-time rendering. This design increases energy consumption by duplicate register files in shaders. However, the register usage of shading programs is often relatively low, which causes many duplicated registers to go unused, and thus wastes energy. In addition, long latency memory operations can consume unnecessary energy to activate registers as well. This study proposes a compiler-assisted energy-efficient demand-driven register file (EDRF) to reduce energy consumptions of registers that are unused and waiting for long latency memory operations. The proposed EDRF is shared on demand between concurrent threads with multiple power gating modes. The management scheme of EDRF puts registers into different power modes to save leakage energy. In addition, the partitioned structure of EDRF saves dynamic energy for accessing registers. Results show that the average dynamic and leakage energy reduction ratios are 84.18% and 99.20%, respectively. Furthermore, the performance degradation from the proposed EDRF is only 0.50% on average.
BURSTING TYPES AND STABLE DOMAINS OF RULKOV NEURON NETWORK WITH MEAN FIELD COUPLING
Authors: CAO HONGJUN , WU YANGUO
Published: January 2014

Based on the detailed bifurcation analysis and the master stability function, bursting types and stable domains of the parameter space of the Rulkov map-based neuron network coupled by the mean field are taken into account. One of our main findings is that besides the square-wave bursting, there at least exist two kinds of triangle burstings after the mean field coupling, which can be determined by the crisis bifurcation, the flip bifurcation, and the saddle-node bifurcation. Under certain coupling conditions, there exists two kinds of striking transitions from the square-wave bursting (the spiking) to the triangle bursting (the square-wave bursting). Stable domains of fixed points, periodic solutions, quasiperiodic solutions and their corresponding firing regimes in the parameter space are presented in a rigorous mathematical way. In particular, as a function of the intrinsic control parameters of each single neuron and the external coupling strength, a stable coefficient of the Neimark–Sacker bifurcation is derived in a parameter plane. These results show that there exist complex dynamics and rich firing regimes in such a simple but thought-provoking neuron network.
A STUDY OF THE COEXISTENCE OF THREE TYPES OF ATTRACTORS IN AN AUTONOMOUS SYSTEM
Authors: DE CARVALHO BRAGA DENIS , MELLO LUIS FERNANDO
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we study the coexistence of three types of attractors in an autonomous system in ℝ3: an equilibrium point, a limit cycle and a chaotic attractor. We give an analytical proof of the mechanism for the birth of two different types of these attractors.
THE LOMONACO–KAUFFMAN CONJECTURE
Authors: KURIYA TAKAHITO , SHEHAB OMAR
Published: January 2014

Samuel J. Lomonaco Jr. and Louis H. Kauffman conjectured that tame knot theory and knot mosaic theory are equivalent. We give a proof of the Lomonaco–Kauffman conjecture.
RESIDUAL STRESSES IN OBLIQUE INCIDENCE DEPOSITED ALUMINA THIN FILM
Authors: HE LIJUN , LI CHUAN , LIU XINGZHAO
Published: January 2014

Residual stresses of alumina thin film deposited on silicon substrate by using electron beam evaporation with oblique angle deposition (OAD) method are studied. The growth parameters that affect the residual stresses of alumina thin film, such as the substrate temperature, the deposition rate, the film thickness, the inclined angle, and the testing temperature are discussed. The results show that the tensile stress value decreases with the increasing substrate temperature, and the compressive stress value increases with the increasing substrate temperature at various inclined angles. Along with the deposition rate increasing, the residual stress value decreases at various inclined angles. With the increasing film thickness, the residual stress value decreases at various inclined angles. With the increasing testing temperature, the residual stress value increases at various inclined angles. While the alumina thin film residual stress value is small at high inclined angle. By choosing the appropriate film preparation parameters, the alumina thin film residual stress is effectively controlled.
Overview of auditory representations in human-machine interfaces
Authors: Csapó Ádám , Wersényi György
Published: January 2014

In recent years, a large number of research projects have focused on the use of auditory representations in a broadened scope of application scenarios. Results in such projects have shown that auditory elements can effectively complement other modalities not only in the traditional desktop computer environment but also in virtual and augmented reality, mobile platforms, and other kinds of novel computing environments. The successful use of auditory representations in this growing number of application scenarios has in turn prompted researchers to rediscover the more basic auditory representations and extend them in various directions. The goal of this article is to survey both classical auditory representations (e.g., auditory icons and earcons) and those auditory representations that have been created as extensions to earlier approaches, including speech-based sounds (e.g., spearcons and spindex representations), emotionally grounded sounds (e.g., auditory emoticons and spemoticons), and various other sound types used to provide sonifications in practical scenarios. The article concludes by outlining the latest trends in auditory interface design and providing examples of these trends.
Occurence of Internet Addiction in a General Population Sample: A Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Rumpf Hans-Jürgen , Vermulst Ad A. , Bischof Anja , Kastirke Nadin , Gürtler Diana , Bischof Gallus , Meerkerk Gert-Jan , John Ulrich , Meyer Christian
Published: January 2014

Background: Prevalence studies of Internet addiction in the general population are rare. In addition, a lack of approved criteria hampers estimation of its occurrence. Aims: This study conducted a latent class analysis (LCA) in a large general population sample to estimate prevalence. Methods: A telephone survey was conducted based on a random digit dialling procedure including landline telephone (n = 14,022) and cell phone numbers (n = 1,001) in participants aged 14-64. The Compulsive Internet Use Scale (CIUS) served as the basis for a LCA used to look for subgroups representing participants with Internet addiction or at-risk use. CIUS was given to participants reporting to use the Internet for private purposes at least 1 h on a typical weekday or at least 1 h on a day at the weekend (n = 8,130). Results: A 6-class model showed best model fit and included two groups likely to represent Internet addiction and at-risk Internet use. Both groups showed less social participation and the Internet addiction group less general trust in other people. Proportions of probable Internet addiction were 1.0% (CI 0.9-1.2) among the entire sample, 2.4% (CI 1.9-3.1) in the age group 14-24, and 4.0% (CI 2.7-5.7) in the age group 14-16. No difference in estimated proportions between males and females was found. Unemployment (OR 3.13; CI 1.74-5.65) and migration background (OR 3.04; CI 2.12-4.36) were related to Internet addiction. Conclusions: This LCA-based study differentiated groups likely to have Internet addiction and at-risk use in the general population and provides characteristics to further define this rather new disorder.
Prestroke Dementia: Characteristics and Clinical Features in Consecutive Series of Patients
Authors: Caratozzolo Salvatore , Riva Maddalena , Vicini Chilovi Barbara , Cerea Erica , Mombelli Giulia , Padovani Alessandro , Rozzini Luca
Published: January 2014

Background/Aim: The prestroke level of cognitive function should be taken into account in order to predict the impact of stroke on the subsequent risk of dementia. The aim of the present study was to investigate the presence and correlates of prestroke dementia (PSD) as well as to identify its clinical features. Methods: Premorbid clinical and cognitive features of 158 consecutively recruited patients with a diagnosis of acute cerebrovascular pathology were assessed by interviewing the caregivers using multidimensional assessment. Patients were divided into two groups (PSD group and prestroke nondemented group). Baseline cognitive, functional and behavioral variables and neuroradiological hallmarks (medial temporal lobe atrophy, MTLA) were compared between these two groups. Results: In a logistic regression model, older age (OR 1.05), female gender (OR 2.3), Neuropsychiatric Inventory total score (OR 1.1) and MTLA (OR 1.2) were the variables independently associated with PSD. Conclusions: These findings support the hypothesis that cognitive impairment in patients with stroke may not only be a direct consequence of the acute cerebrovascular event but also a consequence of underlying neurodegenerative pathology.
Is Soluble Mesothelin-Related Protein an Upfront Predictive Marker of Pleural Mesothelioma? A Prospective Study on Italian Workers Exposed to Asbestos
Authors: Filiberti Rosa , Marroni Paola , Spigno Fabio , Merlo Domenico F. , Mortara Virginia , Caruso Pietro , Cioè Alex , Michelazzi Luigi , Bruzzone Andrea , Bobbio Barbara , Simonassi Claudio , Del Corso Lisette , Galli Roberto , Racchi Omar , Dini Guglielmo , Linares Roberta , Mencoboni Manlio
Published: January 2014

Objective: Soluble mesothelin-related peptide (SMRP) may be useful in the diagnosis and detection of early stage mesothelioma. We investigated the SMRP upfront predictive role for mesothelioma in asbestos-exposed workers. Methods: A total of 1,715 subjects underwent a first visit and were invited for a follow-up after 1 and 2 years, with a clinical examination and blood sampling. SMRP was measured by an ELISA assay. Results: Median SMRP at the first visit was 0.45 [interquartile range (IQR) i.e. 25th-75th percentile: 0.30-0.67 nmol/l]. In all, 1,676 subjects (97.8%) were followed up for a median period of 47.1 months. SMRP was measured at the first visit and at both follow-up visits in 1,536 subjects. At follow-up, 3 subjects were diagnosed with an epithelioid mesothelioma. In these cases, SMRP at the first visit ranged from 0.17 to 0.52 nmol/l. Malignant pleural mesothelioma was diagnosed 9-17 months after the last SMRP evaluation. No SMRP variation was observed during the follow-up. Other 61 miscellaneous cancers were diagnosed (median SMRP at first visit: 0.50 nmol/l, IQR: 0.34-0.71 nmol/l). Conclusions: Our results did not support the usefulness of SMRP as an early marker for the detection of the disease for a time interval of 1 year.
Diagnostic Yield and Safety of Electromagnetic Navigation Bronchoscopy for Lung Nodules: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Gex Gregoire , Pralong Jacques A. , Combescure Christophe , Seijo Luis , Rochat Thierry , Soccal Paola M.
Published: January 2014

Background: Electromagnetic navigation bronchoscopy (ENB) is an emerging endoscopic technique for the diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions. A thorough analysis of ENB's yield and safety is required for comparison to other sampling modalities. Objectives: To describe ENB's yield and safety profile. Methods: The MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were systematically searched for studies reporting ENB's yield for peripheral lung lesions. Two independent investigators extracted data and rated each study on a scale of methodological quality. Clearly defined performance outcomes were reconstructed and meta-analyzed. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were used to identify possible sources of study heterogeneity. Results: A total of 15 trials were included (1,033 lung nodules). A positive and definitive diagnosis was obtained after 64.9% of all ENB procedures (95% CI 59.2-70.3). Overall diagnostic accuracy was 73.9% (95% CI 68.0-79.2). Sensitivity to detect cancer was 71.1% (95% CI 64.6-76.8), with a negative predictive value of 52.1% (95% CI 43.5-60.6). Pneumothorax occurred in 3.1% of patients, requiring chest tube drainage in 1.6% of these cases. Original trials identified 6 variables associated with higher ENB yields: nodule location in the upper or middle lobes, nodule size, lower registration error, presence of a bronchus sign on CT imaging, combined use of an ultrasonic radial probe, and catheter suctioning as a sampling technique. Heterogeneity exploration revealed that studies using general anesthesia or rapid on-site cytological evaluation reported better yields. Conclusions: ENB is effective and particularly safe. Prospective studies are needed to clarify the role of several variables conditioning the yield of this technique.
Radioembolization with Yttrium-90 Microspheres (SIRT) in Pancreatic Cancer Patients with Liver Metastases: Efficacy, Safety and Prognostic Factors
Authors: Michl M. , Haug A.R. , Jakobs T.F. , Paprottka P. , Hoffmann R.-T. , Bartenstein P. , Boeck S. , Haas M. , Laubender R.P. , Heinemann V.
Published: January 2014

Objective: To analyze the clinical efficacy of 90Y radioembolization in liver metastases from pancreatic cancer, to describe treatment toxicities and to identify biomarkers as predictors of outcome. Methods: Data from 19 pancreatic cancer patients (9 females/10 males) who had received 90Y radioembolization for metastatic liver disease between 06/2004 and 01/2011 were analyzed retrospectively. Results: The median age at 90Y radioembolization was 63 years (range 43-77). In 16 patients, previous palliative gemcitabine-based chemotherapy was given for metastatic disease. Objective response in the liver after 90Y radioembolization was 47%. Median local progression-free survival in the liver was 3.4 months (range 0.9-45.0). Median overall survival (OS) was 9.0 months (range 0.9-53.0) and 1-year survival was 24%. Cox regression models for baseline biomarkers at 90Y radioembolization revealed correlations of increased carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (p = 0.02) and C-reactive protein (p = 0.03) with shorter OS. Short-term adverse events (nausea, vomiting, fatigue, fever and abdominal pain) did not exceed grade 3. As long-term adverse events, liver abscesses, gastroduodenal ulceration, cholestasis and cholangitis, ascites and spleen infarction were observed. Conclusion:90Y radioembolization is able to induce an encouraging local response rate of liver metastases of pancreatic cancer patients. Most short-term toxicities are manageable; however, patients should be followed up carefully for severe long-term toxicities.
Knowledge, Group-Based Medical Mistrust, Future Expectations, and Perceived Disadvantages of Medical Genetic Testing: Perspectives of Black African Immigrants/Refugees
Authors: Buseh A. , Kelber S. , Millon-Underwood S. , Stevens P. , Townsend L.
Published: January 2014

Background: Reasons for low participation of ethnic minorities in genetic studies are multifactorial and often poorly understood. Based on published literature, participation in genetic testing is low among Black African immigrants/refugees although they are purported to bear disproportionate disease burden. Thus, research involving Black African immigrant/refugee populations that examine their perspectives on participating in genetic studies is needed. Objectives: This report examines and describes the knowledge of medical genetics, group-based medical mistrust, and future expectations of genetic research and the influence of these measures on the perceived disadvantages of genetic testing among Black African immigrants/refugees. Methods: Using a cross-sectional survey design, a nonprobability sample (n = 212) of Black African immigrants/refugees was administered a questionnaire. Participants ranged in age from 18 to 61 years (mean = 38.91, SD = 9.78). The questionnaire consisted of 5 instruments: (a) sociodemographic characteristics, (b) Knowledge of Medical Genetics scale, (c) Group-Based Medical Mistrust Scale, (d) Future Expectations/Anticipated Consequences of Genetics Research scale, and (e) Perceived Disadvantages of Genetic Testing scale. Results: Participants were concerned that genetic research may result in scientists ‘playing God,' interfering with the natural order of life. In multivariate analyses, the perceived disadvantages of genetic testing increased as medical mistrust and anticipated negative impacts of genetic testing increased. Increase in genetic knowledge contributed to a decrease in perceived disadvantages. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that recruitment of Black African immigrants/refugees in genetic studies should address potential low knowledge of genetics, concerns about medical mistrust, the expectations/anticipated consequences of genetic research, and the perceived disadvantages of genetic testing.
Changes in Adipokine Levels in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Rodrigues David Henrique , Rocha Natália Pessoa , Sousa Larissa Fonseca da Cunha , Barbosa Izabela Guimarães , Kummer Arthur , Teixeira Antônio Lúcio
Published: January 2014

Background and Objective: The etiopathogenesis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is largely unknown, but it seems to involve dysfunction in several biological systems. Among many possible biological pathways, the immune system has emerged as potentially involved. Recent studies have shown association between cytokines (molecules that mediate immune cell interaction) and ASD. Adipokines are cytokines secreted mainly by adipose tissue and may have systemic effects. The main objective of this study was to compare the plasma levels of three adipokines between patients with ASD and healthy controls. Another aim was to correlate the levels of these adipokines and the severity of autistic symptoms as measured by the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Methods: We collected plasma from 30 patients and 19 controls and measured the levels of adiponectin, leptin and resistin using a commercially available kit. We also used the SRS as a tool to assess the severity of autistic symptoms. Results: We found decreased levels of resistin, increased levels of leptin and unaltered levels of adiponectin in plasma from ASD subjects in comparison with controls. There was also a negative correlation between the levels of adiponectin and the severity of symptoms as assessed by the SRS. Conclusion: There are significant changes in the plasma levels of adipokines from patients with ASDs. They suggest the occurrence of systemic changes in ASD and may be hallmarks of the disease.