bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplex Touchdown PCR for Rapid Typing of the Opportunistic Pathogen Propionibacterium acnes
Authors: Barnard Emma , Nagy István , Hunyadkürti Judit , Patrick Sheila , McDowell Andrew
Published: January 2015

The opportunistic human pathogen
Propionibacterium acnes
is composed of a number of distinct phylogroups, designated types IA
1
, IA
2
, IB, IC, II, and III, which vary in their production of putative virulence factors, their inflammatory potential, and their biochemical, aggregative, and morphological characteristics. Although multilocus sequence typing (MLST) currently represents the gold standard for unambiguous phylogroup classification and individual strain identification, it is a labor-intensive and time-consuming technique. As a consequence, we developed a multiplex touchdown PCR assay that in a single reaction can confirm the species identity and phylogeny of an isolate based on its pattern of reaction with six primer sets that target the 16S rRNA gene (all isolates), ATPase (types IA
1
, IA
2
, and IC),
sodA
(types IA
2
and IB),
atpD
(type II), and
recA
(type III) housekeeping genes, as well as a Fic family toxin gene (type IC). When applied to 312
P. acnes
isolates previously characterized by MLST and representing types IA
1
(
n
= 145), IA
2
(
n
= 20), IB (
n
= 65), IC (
n
= 7), II (
n
= 45), and III (
n
= 30), the multiplex displayed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity for detecting isolates within each targeted phylogroup. No cross-reactivity with isolates from other bacterial species was observed. This multiplex assay will provide researchers with a rapid, high-throughput, and technically undemanding typing method for epidemiological and phylogenetic investigations. It will facilitate studies investigating the association of lineages with various infections and clinical conditions, and it will serve as a prescreening tool to maximize the number of genetically diverse isolates selected for downstream higher-resolution sequence-based analyses.
Multiplex Nucleic Acid Suspension Bead Arrays for Detection and Subtyping of Filoviruses
Authors: Bergqvist Cecilia , Holmström Petra , Lindegren Gunnel , Lagerqvist Nina , Leijon Mikael , Falk Kerstin I.
Published: January 2015

Here we describe multiplex suspension bead array systems that allow fast and reliable detection of reverse transcriptase (RT) PCR amplified filovirus genomes and also enable subtyping of Ebola virus species and Marburg virus strains. These systems have an analytical sensitivity equivalent to that of RT-PCR.
Association of Tellurite Resistance with Hypervirulent Clonal Groups of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Passet Virginie , Brisse Sylvain
Published: January 2015

Tellurite-based selective growth media are used for several bacterial pathogens. We found that, in
Klebsiella pneumoniae
, tellurite resistance is strongly associated with hypervirulent clonal group 23 (CG23), CG65, and CG86, providing a novel approach for screening environmental or carriage samples. The
terW
gene was also associated with these groups.
Development and Validation of a Rapid Immunochromatographic Assay for Detection of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Antigen in Dromedary Camels
Authors: Song Daesub , Ha Gunwoo , Serhan Wissam , Eltahir Yassir , Yusof Mohammed , Hashem Farouq , Elsayed Elsaeid , Marzoug Bahaaeldin , Abdelazim Assem , Al Muhairi Salama
Published: January 2015

We present here a rapid immunochromatographic assay for the detection of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) antigen in the nasal swabs of dromedary camels. The assay is based on the detection of MERS-CoV nucleocapsid protein in a short time frame using highly selective monoclonal antibodies at room temperature. The relative sensitivity and specificity of the assay were found to be 93.90% and 100%, respectively, compared to that of the UpE and open reading frame 1A (Orf1A) real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). The results suggest that the assay developed here is a useful tool for the rapid diagnosis and epidemiological surveillance of MERS-CoV infection in dromedary camels.
Reactivation of Hepatitis B Virus without Core Antibody
Authors: Silva-Pinto André , Andrade Joaquim , Araújo Fernando , Santos Lurdes , Sarmento António
Published: January 2015

We present the case of a male patient not vaccinated against hepatitis B virus (HBV) and with reactivity to a surface antibody who, after immunosuppression for a multiple myeloma, had HBV reactivation. Pharmacological HBV suppression was tried, but viremia could not be suppressed. Production-detection core mutations or immunity issues can explain this clinical phenomenon.
The Avian-Origin PB1 Gene Segment Facilitated Replication and Transmissibility of the H3N2/1968 Pandemic Influenza Virus
Authors: Wendel Isabel , Rubbenstroth Dennis , Doedt Jennifer , Kochs Georg , Wilhelm Jochen , Staeheli Peter , Klenk Hans-Dieter , Matrosovich Mikhail
Published: January 2015

The H2N2/1957 and H3N2/1968 pandemic influenza viruses emerged via the exchange of genomic RNA segments between human and avian viruses. The avian hemagglutinin (HA) allowed the hybrid viruses to escape preexisting immunity in the human population. Both pandemic viruses further received the PB1 gene segment from the avian parent (Y. Kawaoka, S. Krauss, and R. G. Webster, J Virol 63:4603–4608, 1989), but the biological significance of this observation was not understood. To assess whether the avian-origin PB1 segment provided pandemic viruses with some selective advantage, either on its own or via cooperation with the homologous HA segment, we modeled by reverse genetics the reassortment event that led to the emergence of the H3N2/1968 pandemic virus. Using seasonal H2N2 virus A/California/1/66 (Cal) as a surrogate precursor human virus and pandemic virus A/Hong Kong/1/68 (H3N2) (HK) as a source of avian-derived PB1 and HA gene segments, we generated four reassortant recombinant viruses and compared pairs of viruses which differed solely by the origin of PB1. Replacement of the PB1 segment of Cal by PB1 of HK facilitated viral polymerase activity, replication efficiency in human cells, and contact transmission in guinea pigs. A combination of PB1 and HA segments of HK did not enhance replicative fitness of the reassortant virus compared with the single-gene PB1 reassortant. Our data suggest that the avian PB1 segment of the 1968 pandemic virus served to enhance viral growth and transmissibility, likely by enhancing activity of the viral polymerase complex.

IMPORTANCE
Despite the high impact of influenza pandemics on human health, some mechanisms underlying the emergence of pandemic influenza viruses still are poorly understood. Thus, it was unclear why both H2N2/1957 and H3N2/1968 reassortant pandemic viruses contained, in addition to the avian HA, the PB1 gene segment of the avian parent. Here, we addressed this long-standing question by modeling the emergence of the H3N2/1968 virus from its putative human and avian precursors. We show that the avian PB1 segment increased activity of the viral polymerase and facilitated viral replication. Our results suggest that in addition to the acquisition of antigenically novel HA (i.e., antigenic shift), enhanced viral polymerase activity is required for the emergence of pandemic influenza viruses from their seasonal human precursors.
Relationship of HbA1c variability, absolute changes in HbA1c, and all-cause mortality in type 2 diabetes: a Danish population-based prospective observational study
Authors: Skriver Mette V , Sandbæk Annelli , Kristensen Jette K , Støvring Henrik
Published: January 2015

Objective

We assessed the relationship of mortality with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) variability and with absolute change in HbA1c.

Design

A population-based prospective observational study with a median follow-up time of 6 years.

Methods

Based on a validated algorithm, 11 205 Danish individuals with type 2 diabetes during 2001–2006 were identified from public data files, with at least three HbA1c measurements: one index measure, one closing measure 22–26 months later, and one measurement in-between. Medium index HbA1c was 7.3%, median age was 63.9 years, and 48% were women. HbA1c variability was defined as the mean absolute residual around the line connecting index value with closing value. Cox proportional hazard models with restricted cubic splines were used, with all-cause mortality as the outcome.

Results

Variability between 0 and 0.5 HbA1c percentage point was not associated with mortality, but for index HbA1c ≤8% (64 mmol/mol), a variability above 0.5 was associated with increased mortality (HR of 1 HbA1c percentage point variability was 1.3 (95% CI 1.1 to 1.5) for index HbA1c 6.6–7.4%). For index HbA1c≤8%, mortality increased when HbA1c declined, but was stable when HbA1c rose. For index HbA1c>8%, change in HbA1c was associated with mortality, with the lowest mortality for greatest decline (HR=0.9 (95% CI 0.80 to 0.98) for a 2-percentage point decrease).

Conclusions

For individuals with an index HbA1c below 8%, both high HbA1c variability and a decline in HbA1c were associated with increased mortality. For individuals with index HbA1c above 8%, change in HbA1c was associated with mortality, whereas variability was not.
Chinese herbal medicine for resistant hypertension: a systematic review
Authors: Xiong Xingjiang , Li Xiaoke , Zhang Yuqing , Wang Jie
Published: January 2015

Objectives

This study aimed to summarise the current evidence from randomised control trials (RCTs) concerning treatment of patients with resistant hypertension with Chinese herbal medicine (CHM).

Design

Seven databases, including the Cochrane Library, PubMed, EMBASE, CNKI, VIP, CBM and Wanfang, were systematically searched from their inception to March 2014 for RCTs investigating treatment of resistant hypertension in which CHM was used either as a monotherapy or in combination with conventional medicine versus placebo, no intervention or conventional medicine.

Results

Five trials containing 446 hypertensive patients were identified. The methodological quality of most trials was evaluated as generally low. All included trials compared CHM plus antihypertensive drugs with antihypertensive drugs alone for resistant hypertension. Formulations of CHM included tablet, decoction and injection. It was found that, compared with antihypertensive drugs alone, CHM (tablet) plus antihypertensive drugs resulted in clinically, but not statistically, significant reductions in systolic blood pressure (SBP; weighted mean difference (WMD)=−10.32 mm Hg; 95% CI −21.10 to 0.46; p=0.06) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP; WMD=−3.30 mm Hg; 95% CI −7.66 to 1.06; p=0.14). CHM (decoction) plus antihypertensive drugs also produced a clinically meaningful, but not statistically significant, reduction in SBP (WMD=−12.56 mm Hg; 95% CI −26.83 to 1.71; p=0.08), and did significantly decrease DBP (WMD=−7.89 mm Hg; 95% CI −11.74 to −4.04; p<0.0001). There were no significant differences in SBP (WMD=−3.50 mm Hg; 95% CI −8.95 to 1.95; p=0.21) and DBP (WMD=1.00 mm Hg; 95% CI −1.39 to 3.39; p=0.41) between CHM (injection) plus the antihypertensive drugs group and antihypertensive drugs alone. The safety of CHM remained uncertain.

Conclusions

No definite conclusions about the effectiveness and safety of CHM for resistant hypertension could be drawn. More rigorously designed trials are warranted.
Socioeconomic deprivation and survival after stroke in China: a systematic literature review and a new population-based cohort study
Authors: Chen Ruoling , Hu Zhi , Chen Ruo-Li , Zhang Dongmei , Xu Long , Wang Jingjing , Wei Li
Published: January 2015

Objective

To assess the association of socioeconomic deprivation (SED) with survival after stroke in China.

Design

A systematic literature review and a new population-based cohort study.

Setting and participants

In urban and rural communities in Anhui, China, 2978 residents aged ≥60 years took part in baseline investigation and were followed up for 5 years; five published studies were identified for a systematic review.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

167 of 2978 participants (5.6%) had doctor-diagnosed stroke at baseline or 1 year later. All-cause mortality in the follow-up.

Results

In the Anhui cohort follow-up of 167 patients with stroke, 64 (38.3%) died. Multivariate adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of mortality in patients with educational level of less than or equal to primary school was 1.88 (95% CI 1.05 to 3.36) compared to those having more than primary school education. Increased HR of mortality in patients living in a rural area was at borderline significant (1.64, 0.97 to 2.78), but the HR in patients with lower levels of occupation and income was not significant. Published studies showed a significant increase in stroke mortality in relation to some SED indicators. Pooled relative risk (RR) of mortality in patients with low education was 3.07 (1.27 to 7.34), in patients with low income 1.58 (1.50 to 1.65) and in patients living in rural areas 1.47 (1.37 to 1.58).

Conclusions

The evidence suggests the presence of a mortality gradient after stroke for material as well as social forms of deprivation in China. Inequalities in survival after stroke persist and need to be taken into account when implementing intervention programmes.
Methamphetamine and cannabis abuse in adolescence: a quasi-experimental study on specific and long-term neurocognitive effects
Authors: Cuzen Natalie L , Koopowitz Sheri-Michelle , Ferrett Helen L , Stein Dan J , Yurgelun-Todd Deborah
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Methamphetamine abuse affects brain structure and function. Although methamphetamine and cannabis are commonly abused together, few studies have investigated the differential neurocognitive consequences of methamphetamine abuse with or without cannabis. Furthermore, the effects of drug use on the developing adolescent brain remain poorly understood. We compared neurocognitive function between adolescents with ‘pure’ methamphetamine abuse, those with comorbid methamphetamine and cannabis abuse, and healthy controls at baseline and follow-up.

Methods

Individuals residing in the greater Cape Town region, between the ages of 13 and 18 years, were recruited into either Methamphetamine only group (Meth-only; n=10), Methamphetamine and cannabis group (Meth-cann; n=10) or healthy control (n=20) groups using a quasi-experimental design. All participants underwent a comprehensive neurocognitive assessment. Substance-use variables and psychiatric symptom counts were also recorded. A portion of the Meth-only and control participants completed 12-month follow-up assessments.

Results

While the Meth-cann group demonstrated widespread neurocognitive deficits at baseline, these deficits were restricted to the self-monitoring domain in the Meth-only group at baseline and at follow-up.

Conclusions

Methamphetamine abuse with cannabis abuse is associated with significantly more neurocognitive impairment than methamphetamine abuse alone, and such deficits may be enduring.
A scoping review protocol to map the research foci trends in tobacco control over the last decade
Authors: Halas Gayle , Schultz Annette S H , Rothney Janet , Goertzen Leah , Wener Pamela , Katz Alan
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Tobacco dependence and smoke exposure have been global epidemics with health consequences recognised by the US Surgeon General since the 1960s and 1970s, respectively. During this period, a vast body of research evidence has emerged including many reviews of primary research studies targeting various tobacco control strategies. Published review studies synthesise primary evidence, providing a rich source for mapping the broad range of topics and research foci along with revealing areas of evidence deficits. In this paper, we outline our scoping review protocol to systematically review published review articles specific to tobacco control and primary prevention over the last 10 years.

Methods and analysis

Using Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review methodology as a guide, our scoping review of published reviews begins by searching several databases: PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), PsycInfo and the Educational Resources Information Centre (ERIC). Our multidisciplinary team has formulated search strategies and two reviewers will independently screen eligible studies for final study selection. Bibliographic data and abstract content will be collected and analysed using a tool developed iteratively by the research team.

Ethics and dissemination

A scoping review of published review articles is a novel approach for examining the breadth of literature regarding tobacco control strategies and, as a secondary analysis, does not require ethics approval. We anticipate results will identify research gaps as well as novel ideas for primary prevention research specific to tobacco control strategies concerning intervention, programming and policy. Although this is our first step in establishing a foundation for a research agenda, we will be disseminating results through journals and conferences targeting primary care providers and tobacco control.
Use of wind-up fetal Doppler versus Pinard for fetal heart rate intermittent monitoring in labour: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Byaruhanga R , Bassani D G , Jagau A , Muwanguzi P , Montgomery A L , Lawn J E
Published: January 2015

Objectives

In resource-poor settings, the standard of care to inform labour management is the partograph plus Pinard stethoscope for intermittent fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring. We compared FHR monitoring in labour using a novel, robust wind-up handheld Doppler with the Pinard as a primary screening tool for abnormal FHR on perinatal outcomes.

Design

Prospective equally randomised clinical trial.

Setting

The labour and delivery unit of a teaching hospital in Kampala, Uganda.

Participants

Of the 2042 eligible antenatal women, 1971 women in active term labour, following uncomplicated pregnancies, were randomised to either the standard of care or not.

Intervention

Intermittent FHR monitoring using Doppler.

Primary outcome measures

Incidence of FHR abnormality detection, intrapartum stillbirth and neonatal mortality prior to discharge.

Results

Age, parity, gestational age, mode of delivery and newborn weight were similar between study groups. In the Doppler group, there was a significantly higher rate of FHR abnormalities detected (incidence rate ratio (IRR)=1.61, 95% CI 1.13 to 2.30). However, in this group, there were also higher though not statistically significant rates of intrapartum stillbirths (IRR=3.94, 0.44 to 35.24) and neonatal deaths (IRR=1.38, 0.44 to 4.34).

Conclusions

Routine monitoring with a handheld Doppler increased the identification of FHR abnormalities in labour; however, our trial did not find evidence that this leads to a decrease in the incidence of intrapartum stillbirth or neonatal death.

Trial registration number

Clinical Trails.gov (1000031587).
Prevalence of smoking restrictions and child exposure to secondhand smoke in cars and homes: a repeated cross-sectional survey of children aged 10–11 years in Wales
Authors: Moore Graham F , Moore Laurence , Littlecott Hannah J , Ahmed Nilufar , Lewis Sophia , Sulley Gillian , Jones Elen , Holliday Jo
Published: January 2015

Objective

Small increases in smoking restrictions in cars and homes were reported after legislation prohibiting smoking in public places. Few studies examine whether these changes continued in the longer term. This study examines changes in restrictions on smoking in cars and homes, and child exposure to secondhand smoke (SHS) in these locations, since 2008 postlegislation surveys in Wales.

Setting

State-maintained primary schools in Wales (n=75).

Participants

Children aged 10–11 years (year 6) completed CHETS (CHild exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke) Wales surveys in 2007 (n=1612) and 2008 (n=1605). A replication survey (CHETS Wales 2) was conducted in 2014, including 1601 children.

Primary outcome variable

Children's reports of whether smoking was allowed in their car or home and exposure to SHS in a car or home the previous day.

Results

The percentage of children who reported that smoking was allowed in their family vehicle fell from 18% to 9% in 2014 (OR=0.42; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.54). The percentage living in homes where smoking was allowed decreased from 37% to 26% (OR=0.30; 95% CI 0.20 to 0.43). Among children with a parent who smoked, one in five and one in two continued to report that smoking was allowed in their car and home. The percentage reporting SHS exposure in a car (OR=0.52; 95% CI 0.38 to 0.72) or home (OR=0.44; 95% CI 0.36 to 0.53) the previous day also fell. Children from poorer families remained less likely to report smoking restrictions.

Conclusions

Smoking in cars and homes has continued to decline. Substantial numbers of children continue to report that smoking is allowed in cars and homes, particularly children from poorer families. A growing number of countries have legislated, or plan to legislate, banning smoking in cars carrying children. Attention is needed to the impact of legislation on child health and health inequalities, and reducing smoking in homes.
Placebo effects in trials evaluating 12 selected minimally invasive interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Holtedahl Robin , Brox Jens Ivar , Tjomsland Ole
Published: January 2015

Objectives

To analyse the impact of placebo effects on outcome in trials of selected minimally invasive procedures and to assess reported adverse events in both trial arms.

Design

A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Data sources and study selection

We searched MEDLINE and Cochrane library to identify systematic reviews of musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiac conditions published between January 2009 and January 2014 comparing selected minimally invasive with placebo (sham) procedures. We searched MEDLINE for additional randomised controlled trials published between January 2000 and January 2014.

Data synthesis

Effect sizes (ES) in the active and placebo arms in the trials’ primary and pooled secondary end points were calculated. Linear regression was used to analyse the association between end points in the active and sham groups. Reported adverse events in both trial arms were registered.

Results

We included 21 trials involving 2519 adult participants. For primary end points, there was a large clinical effect (ES≥0.8) after active treatment in 12 trials and after sham procedures in 11 trials. For secondary end points, 7 and 5 trials showed a large clinical effect. Three trials showed a moderate difference in ES between active treatment and sham on primary end points (ES ≥0.5) but no trials reported a large difference. No trials showed large or moderate differences in ES on pooled secondary end points. Regression analysis of end points in active treatment and sham arms estimated an R2of 0.78 for primary and 0.84 for secondary end points. Adverse events after sham were in most cases minor and of short duration.

Conclusions

The generally small differences in ES between active treatment and sham suggest that non-specific mechanisms, including placebo, are major predictors of the observed effects. Adverse events related to sham procedures were mainly minor and short-lived. Ethical arguments frequently raised against sham-controlled trials were generally not substantiated.
The boarding experience from the patient perspective: the wait
Authors: Liu Shan , Milne Leslie , Yun Brian , Walsh Kathleen
Published: January 2015

Study objective

We sought to better understand the experience of being a boarder patient.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study between March and August 2012 to examine the experience of boarding in an urban, teaching hospital emergency department (ED). We included boarder patients and selected patients based on a convenience sample. Interviews were semistructured, consisting of eight main open-ended questions. Interviews were transcribed; codes were generated and then organised into categorises and subsequently into one theme. We concluded analysis when we achieved thematic saturation. Our institutional review board approved this study.

Results

Our final sample included 18 patients. The average age was 62.3 years. Patients characterised waiting as central to their experience as a boarder patient. One patient stated, “Well if you have to wait for a bed you have to wait for a bed, it's terrible.” Three categories exemplified this waiting experience: (1) there was often lack of communication; (2) patients experienced frustration during this waiting period; and yet (3) patients often differentiated the experience of waiting from the care they were receiving.

Conclusions

Being a boarder patient was characterised as a waiting experience associated with poor communication and frustration. However, patients may still differentiate their feelings towards the wait from those towards the medical care they are receiving. Our data add more reason to eradicate the practice of ED boarding.
Proteins of the mitotic checkpoint and spindle are related to chromosomal instability and unfavourable prognosis in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Genga Kelly Roveran , Filho Francisco Dário Rocha , Ferreira Francisco Valdeci de Almeida , de Sousa Juliana Cordeiro , Studart Fernando Sergio , Magalhães Silvia Maria Meira , Heredia Fabíola Fernandes , Pinheiro Ronald Feitosa
Published: January 2015

Aims

To study the immunoexpression of proteins related to the mitotic checkpoint (cell division cycle 20 (CDC20), mitotic arrest deficient 2 (MAD2)) and the mitotic spindle (Aurora-B) in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS).

Methods

Protein expression was analysed in bone marrow tissue samples from 40 patients with MDS using immunohistochemistry. Prognostic markers (transfusion dependency, depth of cytopenias, chromosomal abnormalities and survival) were also studied.

Results

Higher MAD2 expression was observed among patients with platelets <50×109/L than among patients with platelets ≥50×109/L (42.6±22.8% vs 22.7±19.1%, respectively). Higher CDC20 expression was identified among patients with three dysplasias compared with patients who presented with one or two dysplasias (33.9±24.1% vs 10.5±5.7% vs 12.8±7.8%, respectively), among patients who exhibited a complex versus non-complex karyotype (50.0±30.2% vs 18.4±14%, respectively) and among patients with platelets <50×109/L vs platelets ≥50×109/L (38.2±26.2% vs 16.1±12.4%, respectively). Higher Aurora-B expression was found in patients with an abnormal versus normal karyotype (21.2±13.2% vs 7.5±5.0%, respectively). High expression of MAD2 and CDC20 (≥50%) was associated with severe thrombocytopenia. We also found statistically significant differences in the overall survival rate when comparing different degrees of CDC20, MAD2 and Aurora-B protein expression.

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to demonstrate that these proteins are associated with chromosomal abnormalities and poor prognosis in patients with MDS.
Associations of financial strain and income with depressive and anxiety disorders
Authors: Dijkstra-Kersten Sandra M A , Biesheuvel-Leliefeld Karolien E M , van der Wouden Johannes C , Penninx Brenda W J H , van Marwijk Harm W J
Published: January 2015

Background

Previous research has shown socioeconomic inequality in prevalence and onset of depressive disorders. It is not yet clear whether perceived financial strain is associated with depressive and/or anxiety disorders in addition to an objective indicator, such as income. This study examines whether financial strain is associated with the prevalence and onset/recurrence of depressive and/or anxiety disorders, above income.

Methods

Data are from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. Associations between financial strain, income and presence of depressive and/or anxiety disorder at baseline were assessed among 2937 participants (18–65 years). Impact of financial strain and income on 4-year onset/recurrence of depressive and/or anxiety disorders were examined among 1250 participants without a depressive or anxiety disorder at baseline. Depressive and anxiety disorders were determined with the Composite-International-Diagnostic-Interview. Financial strain and income were assessed in an interview.

Results

Participants with mild or severe financial strain had higher odds of being depressed (OR=1.68, 95% CI 1.35 to 2.09; OR=3.88, 95% CI 2.58 to 5.81) or remitted (OR=1.56, 95% CI 1.24 to 1.96; OR=1.99, 95% CI 1.27 to 3.11) at baseline compared with healthy controls, after adjusting for income. Mild or severe financial strain was not associated with onset/recurrence of depressive and/or anxiety disorders during follow-up (OR=1.08, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.42; OR=1.05, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.73).

Conclusions

Financial strain was associated with having a depressive and/or anxiety disorder, above the effect of income. Healthcare and social services should be alert to this association, even for higher income households. However, financial strain and income were not related with 4-year onset/recurrence of depressive and/or anxiety disorders.
Partial ablation of a para‐ureteral pseudocyst without ureteronephrectomy in a cat
Authors: Rossanese Matteo
Published: January 2015

A three‐year‐old, male neutered, domestic shorthair cat was presented eight weeks after a road traffic accident with abdominal pain, lethargy and anorexia. Clinical examination was suggestive of a mass in the right retroperitoneal space. Survey radiographs and abdominal ultrasonography confirmed the presence of a cavitated fluid‐filled lesion in the left retroperitoneal area consistent with a suspected paraureteral pseudocyst. Based on these findings, an exploratory laparotomy was performed. Surgical management included partial resection and omentalisation of the pseudocyst without ureteronephrectomy. The patient recovered well after surgery and the clinical signs resolved completely after 24 hours. One, three and six months after surgery, the cat was reportedly well. In the presence of a healthy kidney with maintained renal function, an attempt to preserve the kidney and ureter should be made.
Start-up Demonstration Tests Involving a Two-Dimensional TSCSTFCF Procedure
Authors: Gera Amos E.
Published: January 2015

An extension of the previously introduced TSCSTFCF start-up demonstration procedure for the two-dimensional case is presented. It involves the testing of several units in parallel. A constrained optimization is set up for reducing the expected time of the test procedure subject to constraints on the confidence level on the probability of acceptance of the unit. Running several units in parallel shows the foreseen advantage in reducing the time of the duration of the tests for the present demonstration procedure compared to those of the single unit procedures. The standard deviation of the results for the common number of required tests for all units is much lower. The compromise between the number of tested units and the expected time length of the procedure is illustrated.
WEAK AND STRONG NO-ARBITRAGE CONDITIONS FOR CONTINUOUS FINANCIAL MARKETS
Authors: FONTANA CLAUDIO
Published: January 2015

We propose a unified analysis of a whole spectrum of no-arbitrage conditions for financial market models based on continuous semimartingales. In particular, we focus on no-arbitrage conditions weaker than the classical notions of No Arbitrage opportunity (NA) and No Free Lunch with Vanishing Risk (NFLVR). We provide a complete characterization of the considered no-arbitrage conditions, linking their validity to the characteristics of the discounted asset price process and to the existence and the properties of (weak) martingale deflators, and review classical as well as recent results.
Postbuckling and Mode Jumping Analysis of Deep Hygrothermally Buckled Angle-Ply Laminated Plates
Authors: Zhong Yifeng , Zhang Liangliang , Zhou Xiaoping
Published: January 2015

An analytical investigation is performed to study the secondary instability and dynamic aspects of the mode jumping in hygrothermally buckled angle-ply laminated plates. The governing partial differential equations (PDEs) and constitution relations are derived rigorously from an asymptotically correct, geometrically nonlinear theory. A novel and relatively simpler solution approach is developed to solve the two coupled fourth-order PDEs, namely, the compatibility equation and the dynamic governing equation. The von Kármán plate equation, namely, the coupled nonlinear governing equation, is reduced to a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by expressing the transverse deflection as a series of linear buckling modes. The ODEs, combined with the nonlinear algebraic constraint equations obtained from in-plane boundary conditions, are then solved numerically under the parametric variation of the temperature and moisture. The comparison between the present method and the FEA shows that the secondary bifurcation point of the hygrothermally loaded plate is far beyond the primary buckling point, and the jump behavior cannot be predicted correctly without sufficient assumed modes, while the present method has the capability of exploring deeply into the post-secondary buckling realm and capture the mode jumping phenomenon for various combinations of plate configurations boundary conditions. Furthermore, by monitoring free vibration along the stable primary postbuckling and the jumped equilibrium paths, we find that a mode shifting phenomenon (the exchange of vibration modes) exists in the primary post-buckling regime.
A Study on the Fluctuating Pressure Correlation of a Cantilevered Elliptic Annular Roof Structure
Authors: Chen Zhaohui , Sun Yi , Zhang Haiyong , Zhang Zhaohui
Published: January 2015

A wind tunnel test on a large-span cantilevered elliptical annular roof was carried out. The time series of wind pressures were tested simultaneously on the upper and lower surfaces of a roof structure rigid model, that was exposed to open and suburban boundary layer air flows in various wind directions. The spatial correlation characteristics of fluctuating pressures on the roof structure were analyzed. Both the analyzing results of the correlation coefficient in time domain and the coherence function in frequency domain indicated that the correlation structure of the fluctuating pressure of a large-span roof is sensitive to the location of the investigated taps, the roof geometry, the wind direction, and the inflow turbulence. Therefore, the simulation methodology, using a single coherence function, based on the spatial interval of two taps, ignoring the geometry characteristics and the particular tap locations on the roof, a method commonly used in wind load simulations for high-rise and flat roof structures, is shown to not be appropriate for large-span cantilevered roof structures. This quasi-steady approach cannot be employed to evaluate large-span roof structures.
The conditions (Ci) in modular lattices, and applications
Authors: Albu Toma , Iosif Mihai , Tercan Adnan
Published: January 2015

In this paper, we introduce and investigate the latticial counterparts of the conditions (Ci), i = 1, 2, 3, 11, 12, for modules. In particular, we study the lattices satisfying the condition (C1), we call CC lattices (for Closed are Complements), i.e. the lattices such that any closed element is a complement, that are the latticial counterparts of CS modules (for Closed are Summands). Applications of these results are given to Grothendieck categories and module categories equipped with a torsion theory.
On the (m, r)-potent ranks of certain semigroups of transformations
Authors: Zhao Ping , You Taijie , Chen Yunkun
Published: January 2015

It is known that the ranks of the semigroups 𝒮ingnand 𝒮𝒫𝒯n(the semigroups of singular self-maps and partial transformations on Xn= {1, 2, …, n}, respectively) are [Formula: see text], respectively. The idempotent ranks, defined as the smallest number of idempotents generating set, of 𝒮ingnand 𝒮𝒫𝒯nare the same value as the ranks, respectively. Idempotent can be seen as a special case (with m = r = 1) of (m, r)-potent. In this paper, we determine the (m, r)-potent ranks, defined as the smallest number of (m, r)-potent generating set, of the semigroups 𝒮ingnand 𝒮𝒫𝒯n.
Middle cerebral artery remodeling following transient brain ischemia is linked to early postischemic hyperemia: A target of uric acid treatment
Authors: Onetti Yara , Dantas Ana P. , Pérez Belén , Cugota Roger , Chamorro Angel , Planas Anna M. , Vila Elisabet , Jiménez-Altayó Francesc
Published: January 2015

Ischemia impairs blood supply to the brain, and reperfusion is important to restore cerebral blood flow (CBF) and rescue neurons from cell death. However, reperfusion can induce CBF values exceeding the basal values before ischemia. This hyperemic effect has been associated with a worse ischemic brain damage, albeit the mechanisms that contribute to infarct expansion are not clear. In this study, we investigated the influence of early postischemic hyperemia on brain damage and middle cerebral artery (MCA) properties and the effect of treatment with the endogenous antioxidant uric acid (UA). The MCA was occluded for 90 min followed by 24 h reperfusion in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. Cortical CBF increases at reperfusion beyond 20% of basal values were taken as indicative of hyperemia. UA (16 mg/kg) or vehicle (Locke's buffer) was administered intravenously 135 min after MCA occlusion. Hyperemic compared with nonhyperemic rats showed MCA wall thickening (sham: 22.4 ± 0.8 μm; nonhyperemic: 23.1 ± 1.2 μm; hyperemic: 27.8 ± 0.9 at 60 mmHg; P < 0.001, hyperemic vs. sham) involving adventitial cell proliferation, increased oxidative stress, and interleukin-18, and more severe brain damage. Thus MCA remodeling after ischemia-reperfusion takes place under vascular oxidative and inflammatory stress conditions linked to hyperemia. UA administration attenuated MCA wall thickening, induced passive lumen expansion, and reduced brain damage in hyperemic rats, although it did not increase brain UA concentration. We conclude that hyperemia at reperfusion following brain ischemia induces vascular damage that can be attenuated by administration of the endogenous antioxidant UA.
Heat shock protein 90 inhibition by 17-DMAG attenuates abdominal aortic aneurysm formation in mice
Authors: Qi Jia , Yang Ping , Yi Bing , Huo Yan , Chen Ming , Zhang Jian , Sun Jianxin
Published: January 2015

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a common degenerative vascular disease whose pathogenesis is associated with activation of multiple signaling pathways including Jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNK) and NF-κB. It is now well recognized that these pathways are chaperoned by the heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90), suggesting that inhibition of Hsp90 may be a novel strategy for inhibiting AAAs. The aim of this study is to investigate whether inhibition of Hsp90 by 17-DMAG (17-dimethyl-aminothylamino-17-demethoxy-geldanamycin) attenuates ANG II-induced AAA formation in mice, and, if so, to elucidate the mechanisms involved. Apolipoprotein E-null mice were infused with ANG II to induce AAA formation and simultaneously treated by intraperitoneal injection with either vehicle or 17-DMAG for 4 wk. ANG II infusion induced AAA formation in 80% of mice, which was accompanied by increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, enhanced tissue inflammation, oxidative stress, and neovascularization. Importantly, these effects were inhibited by 17-DMAG treatment. Mechanistically, we showed that 17-DMAG prevented the formation and progression of AAA through its inhibitory effects on diverse biological pathways including 1) by blocking ANG II-induced phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK that are critically involved in the regulation of MMPs in vascular smooth muscle cells, 2) by inhibiting IκB kinase expression and expression of MCP-1, and 3) by attenuating ANG II-stimulated angiogenic processes critical to AAA formation. Our results demonstrate that inhibition of Hsp90 by 17-DMAG effectively attenuates ANG II-induced AAA formation by simultaneously inhibiting vascular inflammation, extracellular matrix degradation, and angiogenesis, which are critical in the formation and progression of AAAs.
Compensatory increase of left atrial external work to left ventricular dysfunction caused by afterload increase
Authors: Inoue Katsuji , Asanuma Toshihiko , Masuda Kasumi , Sakurai Daisuke , Higaki Jitsuo , Nakatani Satoshi
Published: January 2015

Afterload mismatch can cause acute decompensation leading to an occurrence of acute heart failure. We investigated how the left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) react to acute increases in afterload using speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). LA strain and volume were obtained by STE in 10 dogs during banding of descending aorta (AoB). Simultaneously, LA pressure was measured by a micromanometer-tipped catheter. LA peak negative strain during LA contraction, strain change during LA relaxation (early reservoir strain), and that during LA dilatation (late reservoir strain) were obtained from LA longitudinal strain-volume curves. From pressure-strain curves, the areas of A-loop and V-loops were computed as the work during active contraction and relaxation (A-work) and that during passive filling and emptying (V-work). AoB increased LV systolic pressure (105 ± 15 vs. 163 ± 12 mmHg, P < 0.01) and mean LA pressure (3.8 ± 1.2 vs. 7.1 ± 2.0 mmHg, P < 0.01). LV global circumferential strain decreased (−18.8 ± 3.5 vs. −13.2 ± 3.5%, P < 0.01), but LV stroke volume was maintained (8.4 ± 2.3 vs. 9.6 ± 3.6 ml). LA peak negative strain (−2.9 ± 2.3 vs. −9.8 ± 4.0%, P < 0.01) and early reservoir strain (4.5 ± 2.1 vs. 7.7 ± 2.4%, P < 0.05) increased by AoB, but late reservoir strain did not change (8.9 ± 3.4 vs. 6.1 ± 3.4%). A-work significantly increased (3.2 ± 2.0 vs. 19.2 ± 15.1 mmHg %, P < 0.01), whereas V-work did not change (13.3 ± 7.1 vs. 13.1 ± 7.7 mmHg %). In conclusion, LA external work during active contraction and relaxation increased as compensation for LV dysfunction during aortic banding. Atrial dysfunction may lead failure of this mechanism and hemodynamic decompensation.
Association of testosterone with estrogen abolishes the beneficial effects of estrogen treatment by increasing ROS generation in aorta endothelial cells
Authors: Costa Tiago J. , Ceravolo Graziela S. , dos Santos Rosangela A. , de Oliveira Maria Aparecida , Araújo Priscila X. , Giaquinto Luciana R. , Tostes Rita C. , Akamine Eliana H. , Fortes Zuleica B. , Dantas Ana Paula , Carvalho Maria Helena C.
Published: January 2015

Testosterone has been added to hormone replacement therapy to treat sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Whereas estrogen has been associated with vascular protection, the vascular effects of testosterone are contradictory and the effects of its association with estrogen are largely unknown. In this study we determined the effects of testosterone associated with conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) on vascular function using a model of hypertensive postmenopausal female: ovariectomized spontaneously hypertensive rats. Female spontaneously hypertensive rats were divided into sham-operated, ovariectomized (OVX), and OVX treated for 15 days with either CEE alone (OVX+CEE) or associated with testosterone (OVX+CEE+T). Angiotensin II (ANG II)-induced contraction was markedly increased in aortic rings from OVX compared with sham-operated rats. CEE treatment restored ANG-II responses, a beneficial effect abrogated with CEE+T. CEE treatment also increased endothelium-dependent relaxation, which was impaired in OVX rats. This effect was lost by CEE+T. Treatment of aortas with losartan (ANG-II type-1 receptor antagonist) or apocynin (NADPH-oxidase inhibitor) restored the endothelium-dependent relaxation in OVX and CEE+T, establishing an interplay between ANG-II and endothelial dysfunction in OVX and CEE+T. The benefits by CEE were associated with downregulation of NADPH-oxidase subunits mRNA expression and decreased reactive oxygen species generation. The association of testosterone with CEE impairs the benefits of estrogen on OVX-associated endothelial dysfunction and reactive oxygen species generation in rat aorta by a mechanism that involves phosphorylation of the cytosolic NADPH-oxidase subunit p47 phox.
Exercise training promotes cardioprotection through oxygen-sparing action in high fat-fed mice
Authors: Lund J. , Hafstad A. D. , Boardman N. T. , Rossvoll L. , Rolim N. P. , Ahmed M. S. , Florholmen G. , Attramadal H. , Wisløff U. , Larsen T. S. , Aasum E.
Published: January 2015

Although exercise training has been demonstrated to have beneficial cardiovascular effects in diabetes, the effect of exercise training on hearts from obese/diabetic models is unclear. In the present study, mice were fed a high-fat diet, which led to obesity, reduced aerobic capacity, development of mild diastolic dysfunction, and impaired glucose tolerance. Following 8 wk on high-fat diet, mice were assigned to 5 weekly high-intensity interval training (HIT) sessions (10 × 4 min at 85–90% of maximum oxygen uptake) or remained sedentary for the next 10 constitutive weeks. HIT increased maximum oxygen uptake by 13%, reduced body weight by 16%, and improved systemic glucose homeostasis. Exercise training was found to normalize diastolic function, attenuate diet-induced changes in myocardial substrate utilization, and dampen cardiac reactive oxygen species content and fibrosis. These changes were accompanied by normalization of obesity-related impairment of mechanical efficiency due to a decrease in work-independent myocardial oxygen consumption. Finally, we found HIT to reduce infarct size by 47% in ex vivo hearts subjected to ischemia-reperfusion. This study therefore demonstrated for the first time that exercise training mediates cardioprotection following ischemia in diet-induced obese mice and that this was associated with oxygen-sparing effects. These findings highlight the importance of optimal myocardial energetics during ischemic stress.
Activation of afferent renal nerves modulates RVLM-projecting PVN neurons
Authors: Xu Bo , Zheng Hong , Liu Xuefei , Patel Kaushik P.
Published: January 2015

Renal denervation for the treatment of hypertension has proven to be successful; however, the underlying mechanism/s are not entirely clear. To determine if preautonomic neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) respond to afferent renal nerve (ARN) stimulation, extracellular single-unit recording was used to investigate the contribution of the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM)-projecting PVN (PVN-RVLM) neurons to the response elicited during stimulation of ARN. In 109 spontaneously active neurons recorded in the PVN of anesthetized rats, 25 units were antidromically activated from the RVLM. Among these PVN-RVLM neurons, 84% (21/25) were activated by ARN stimulation. The baseline discharge rate was significantly higher in these neurons than those PVN-RVLM neurons not activated by ARN stimulation (16%, 4/25). The responsiveness of these neurons to baroreflex activation induced by phenylephrine and activation of cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) was also examined. Almost all of the PVN neurons that responded to ARN stimulation were sensitive to baroreflex (95%) and CSAR (100%). The discharge characteristics for nonevoked neurons (not activated by RVLM antidromic stimulation) showed that 23% of these PVN neurons responded to ARN stimulation. All the PVN neurons that responded to ARN stimulation were activated by N-methyl-d-aspartate, and these responses were attenuated by the glutamate receptor blocker AP5. These experiments demonstrated that sensory information originating in the kidney is integrated at the level of preautonomic neurons within the PVN, providing a novel mechanistic insight for use of renal denervation in the modulation of sympathetic outflow in disease states such as hypertension and heart failure.