bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oestrogen‐induced angiogenesis promotes adenomyosis by activating the Slug‐VEGF axis in endometrial epithelial cells
Authors: Huang Tze‐Sing , Chen Yi‐Jen , Chou Teh‐Ying , Chen Chih‐Yao , Li Hsin‐Yang , Huang Ben‐Shian , Tsai Hsiao‐Wen , Lan Hsin‐Yi , Chang Cheng‐Hsuan , Twu Nae‐Fang , Yen Ming‐Shyen , Wang Peng‐Hui , Chao Kuan‐Chong , Lee Chun‐Chung , Yang Muh‐Hwa
Published: April 2014

Adenomyosis is an oestrogen‐dependent disease characterized by the invasion of endometrial epithelial cells into the myometrium of uterus, and angiogenesis is thought to be required for the implantation of endometrial glandular tissues during the adenomyotic pathogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate that compared with eutopic endometria, adenomyotic lesions exhibited increased vascularity as detected by sonography. Microscopically, the lesions also exhibited an oestrogen‐associated elevation of microvascular density and VEGF expression in endometrial epithelial cells. We previously reported that oestrogen‐induced Slug expression was critical for endometrial epithelial–mesenchymal transition and development of adenomyosis. Our present studies demonstrated that estradiol (E2) elicited a Slug‐VEGF axis in endometrial epithelial cells, and also induced pro‐angiogenic activity in vascular endothelial cells. The antagonizing agents against E2 or VEGF suppressed endothelial cells migration and tubal formation. Animal experiments furthermore confirmed that blockage of E2 or VEGF was efficient to attenuate the implantation of adenomyotic lesions. These results highlight the importance of oestrogen‐induced angiogenesis in adenomyosis development and provide a potential strategy for treating adenomyosis through intercepting the E2‐Slug‐VEGF pathway.
Guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection in Korea, 2013 revised edition
Authors: Kim Sang Gyun , Jung Hye‐Kyung , Lee Hang Lak , Jang Jae Young , Lee Hyuk , Kim Chan Gyoo , Shin Woon Geon , Shin Ein Soon , Lee Yong Chan ,   Korean College of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research
Published: April 2014

The Korean College of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research first developed guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in 1998, and revised guidelines were proposed in 2009 by the same group. Although the revised guidelines were based on a comprehensive review of published articles and the consensus of expert opinions, the revised guidelines were not developed using an evidence‐based process. The new guidelines presented in this study include specific changes regarding indication and treatment of H. pylori infection in Korea, and were developed through the adaptation process using an evidence‐based approach. After systematic review of the literature, six guidelines were selected using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II process. A total of 21 statements were proposed with the grading system and revised using the modified Delphi method. After the guideline revisions, 11 statements about indication of test and treatment, four statements about diagnosis, and four statements about treatment of H. pylori infection were developed. The revised guidelines were reviewed by external experts before receiving official endorsement from the Korean College of Helicobacter and Upper Gastrointestinal Research, and disseminated to physicians and other medical professionals for use in clinical practice in Korea. The guidelines will continue to be updated and revised periodically.
Adverse health in parents of children with disabilities and chronic health conditions: a meta‐analysis using theParentingStressIndex'sHealthSub‐domain
Authors: Miodrag N. , Burke M. , Tanner‐Smith E. , Hodapp R. M.
Published: April 2014

Background

Compared with parents of same‐aged children without disabilities, parents of children with disabilities and with chronic health conditions (CHC) show higher levels of stress and depression. Fewer studies, however, examine the physical health of these parents, and studies report mixed findings. Many studies, however, report mother's self‐reported health using theHealthSub‐domain ofAbidin'sParentingStressIndex (PSI). We therefore conducted a meta‐analysis comparing the physical health of parents of children with developmental disabilities (DD) andCHCvs. parents of children withoutDD/CHCin studies utilising this measure.

Methods

Eligible studies used the long form of thePSIand reported results from the 5‐itemHealth sub‐domain. Group comparison effect sizes were synthesised in a meta‐analysis, and we also examined the potential relations of child, parent, and study characteristics. Our search yielded 19 eligible studies.

Results

Compared with parents of children withoutDD/CHC, parents of children withDD/CHCreported higherPSIhealth problem scores, with a weighted mean effect size of 0.39 (95% CI = 0.23–0.55). Effect sizes ranged from −0.13 to 1.46 and there was evidence of heterogeneity in the effect sizes (τ2 = 0.07;Q18 = 48.64,P < 0.01;I2 = 63.0%). Studies with higher numbers of reporting quality indicators generally reported larger effects and more recent studies showed smaller effects. Although several child and parent characteristics were moderately associated with effect sizes, none reached statistical significance.

Conclusions

Practitioners should be alerted to the need for health prevention and treatment in this at‐risk parent group.
Evaluation of hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of the sponge Jaspis diastra collected from Mauritius Waters on HeLa cells
Authors: Beedessee Girish , Ramanjooloo Avin , Tiscornia Inés , Cresteil Thierry , Raghothama Srinivasarao , Arya Deepak , Rao Shashanka , Gowd Konkallu Hanumae , Bollati-Fogolin Mariela , Marie Daniel E P
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Based on previous screening results, the cytotoxic effect of the hexane (JDH) and ethyl acetate extracts (JDE) of the marine sponge Jaspis diastra were evaluated on HeLa cells and the present study aimed at determining their possible mechanism of cell death.

Methods

Nuclear staining, membrane potential change, flow cytometry analysis of cell cycle distribution and annexin V staining were undertaken to investigate the effects of JDE and JDH. Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance were used to characterize an isolated bioactive molecule.

Key findings

JDE displayed an IC50 25 times more significant than the JDH. Flow cytometry analysis revealed JDE induced apoptosis in HeLa cells accompanied by the collapse of mitochondrial membrane potential. Fractionation of JDE resulted in the isolation of the known cytotoxic cyclodepsipeptide, Jaspamide.

Conclusions

Taking our results together suggest that JDE can be valuable for the development of anticancer drugs, especially for cervical cancer. Further investigations are currently in progress with the aim to determine and isolate other bioactive compounds from this extract.
Life history of harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) in Scottish (UK) waters
Authors: Learmonth Jennifer A. , Murphy Sinead , Luque Patricia L. , Reid Robert J. , Patterson I. Anthony P. , Brownlow Andrew , Ross Harry M. , Barley Jason P. , Begoña Santos M. , Pierce Graham J.
Published: April 2014

Life history parameters were determined for stranded and bycaught harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) from Scottish (UK) waters (1992–2005). Fetal growth rate was 84.4 mm/mo and mean size at birth was 76.4 cm (range 65–88 cm). Males and females had a similar range of body lengths (65–170 cm and 66–173 cm, respectively), although asymptotic lengths were higher in females than males (approximately 158 cm and 147 cm, respectively). Nonpregnant females were significantly lighter, in relation to their length than males. Maximum estimated age was 20 yr for both sexes. Age at sexual maturity (ASM) was estimated as 4.35 yr in females and 5.00 yr in males. Conception occurred mainly in July and August although reproductively active males were recorded during April to July. Gestation lasted 10–11 mo, with calving mainly between May and July. Lactating females were recorded during June to November, while small calves with solid food in their stomachs were found mainly during February to May. Estimated pregnancy rate (0.34–0.40) is lower than recorded elsewhere, but is likely underestimated due to the prevalence of mature females of poor health status in the sample. Nevertheless, cetacean strandings can be an essential source of data on demographic parameters.
Who Exports Better Quality Products to Smaller or More Distant Markets?
Authors: Whang Unjung
Published: April 2014

The role of across‐firm differences in product quality and firms' competitiveness in determining the spatial patterns of within‐product export unit values across destinations is examined in this paper. Using product level export data, it is shown that the average export unit value of a product shipped from the USA or Korea increases with distance and decreases with destination market's size. However, within‐product average unit values for products exported from China and India decrease with distance and increase with market size. To interpret these different spatial patterns of unit values across exporting countries, model of quality heterogeneity is developed in which firms differ in their workers' skill level and higher‐skilled workers show greater productivity in performing tasks that improve product quality. The model predicts that in relatively skill‐abundant countries, exporting firms specialize in high‐quality products using relatively cheap skilled labor, whereas, in relatively skill‐scarce countries, firms that produce lower‐quality products are more competitive.
Influence of Service-Learning on Kinesiology Students’ Attitudes Toward P–12 Students With Disabilities
Authors: Roper Emily A. , Santiago José A.
Published: April 2014

Employing a grounded theory approach, the purpose of this study was to qualitatively examine the influence of service-learning (SL) on undergraduate kinesiology students’ attitudes toward and experiences working with P–12 students with disabilities. Fourteen (9 female, 5 male) kinesiology students enrolled in an adapted physical education class participated in one of three focus group interviews regarding their experiences of working with P–12 students with disabilities. All interview data were analyzed following procedures outlined by Strauss and Corbin (1998). The following five themes represent the participants’ experiences and attitudes toward P–12 students with disabilities after their involvement in a SL project: (a) initial reactions, (b) selection of P–12 students, (c) preconceived attitudes, (d) the benefits of SL, and (e) positive experience. All 14 of the participants who volunteered to share their experiences indicated that the SL experience positively affected their attitudes toward individuals with disabilities.
Negotiated Meanings of Disability Simulations in an Adapted Physical Activity Course: Learning From Student Reflections
Authors: Leo Jennifer , Goodwin Donna
Published: April 2014

Disability simulations have been used as a pedagogical tool to simulate the functional and cultural experiences of disability. Despite their widespread application, disagreement about their ethical use, value, and efficacy persists. The purpose of this study was to understand how postsecondary kinesiology students experienced participation in disability simulations. An interpretative phenomenological approach guided the study’s collection of journal entries and clarifying one-on-one interviews with four female undergraduate students enrolled in a required adapted physical activity course. The data were analyzed thematically and interpreted using the conceptual framework of situated learning. Three themes transpired: unnerving visibility, negotiating environments differently, and tomorrow I’ll be fine. The students described emotional responses to the use of wheelchairs as disability artifacts, developed awareness of environmental barriers to culturally and socially normative activities, and moderated their discomfort with the knowledge they could end the simulation at any time.
Effect of Drink Carbohydrate Content on Postexercise Gastric Emptying, Rehydration, and the Calculation of Net Fluid Balance
Authors: Clayton David J. , Evans Gethin H. , James Lewis J.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to examine the gastric emptying and rehydration effects of hypotonic and hypertonic glucose-electrolyte drinks after exercise-induced dehydration. Eight healthy males lost ~1.8% body mass by intermittent cycling and rehydrated (150% of body mass loss) with a hypotonic 2% (2% trial) or a hypertonic 10% (10% trial) glucose-electrolyte drink over 60 min. Blood and urine samples were taken at preexercise, postexercise, and 60, 120, 180, and 240 min postexercise. Gastric and test drink volume were determined 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min postexercise. At the end of the gastric sampling period 0.3% (2% trial) and 42.1% (10% trial; p < .001) of the drinks remained in the stomach. Plasma volume was lower (p < .01) and serum osmolality was greater (p < .001) at 60 and 120 min during the 10% trial. At 240 min, 52% (2% trial) and 64% (10% trial; p < .001) of the drinks were retained. Net fluid balance was greater from 120 min during the 10% trial (p < .001). When net fluid balance was corrected for the volume of fluid in the stomach, it was greater at 60 and 120 min during the 2% trial (p < .001). These results suggest that the reduced urine output following ingestion of a hypertonic rehydration drink might be mediated by a slower rate of gastric emptying, but the slow gastric emptying of such solutions makes rehydration efficiency difficult to determine in the hours immediately after drinking, compromising the calculation of net fluid balance.
Voluntary Water Intake during and Following Moderate Exercise in the Cold
Authors: Mears Stephen A. , Shirreffs Susan M.
Published: April 2014

Exercising in cold environments results in water losses, yet examination of resultant voluntary water intake has focused on warm conditions. The purpose of the study was to assess voluntary water intake during and following exercise in a cold compared with a warm environment. Ten healthy males (22 ± 2 years, 67.8 ± 7.0 kg, 1.77 ± 0.06 m, VO2peak 60.5 ± 8.9 ml·kg−1·min−1) completed two trials (7–8 days). In each trial subjects sat for 30 min before cycling at 70% VO2peak (162 ± 27W) for 60 min in 25.0 ± 0.1 °C, 50.8 ± 1.5% relative humidity (RH; warm) or 0.4 ± 1.0 °C, 68.8 ± 7.5% RH (cold). Subjects then sat for 120 min at 22.2 ± 1.2 °C, 50.5 ± 8.0% RH. Ad libitum drinking was allowed during the exercise and recovery periods. Urine volume, body mass, serum osmolality, and sensations of thirst were measured at baseline, postexercise and after 60 and 120 min of the recovery period. Sweat loss was greater in the warm trial (0.96 ± 0.18 l v 0.48 ± 0.15 l; p < .0001) but body mass losses over the trials were similar (1.15 ± 0.34% (cold) v 1.03 ± 0.26% (warm)). More water was consumed throughout the duration of the warm trial (0.81 ± 0.42 l v 0.50 ± 0.49 l; p = .001). Cumulative urine output was greater in the cold trial (0.81 ± 0.46 v 0.54 ± 0.31 l; p = .036). Postexercise serum osmolality was higher compared with baseline in the cold (292 ± 2 v 287 ± 3 mOsm.kg−1, p < .0001) and warm trials (288 ± 5 v 285 ± 4 mOsm·kg−1; p = .048). Thirst sensations were similar between trials (p > .05). Ad libitum water intake adjusted so that similar body mass losses occurred in both trials. In the cold there appeared to a blunted thirst response.
Tracking the Commute Home From School Utilizing GPS and Heart Rate Monitoring: Establishing the Contribution to Free-Living Physical Activity
Authors: Collins Peter , Al-Nakeeb Yahya , Lyons Mark
Published: April 2014

Background:

Active school commuting is widely regarded as a key opportunity for youth to participate in physical activity (PA). However, the accurate measurement of the commute home from school and its contribution to total free-living moderateto- vigorous PA (MVPA) is relatively unexplored.

Methods:

Seventy-five adolescents (38 males, 37 females) wore an integrated GPS and heart rate device during after-school hours for 4 consecutive weekdays.

Results:

Active commuters were significantly more active (11.72 minutes MVPA) than passive commuters (3.5 minutes MVPA) during their commute home from school (P = .001). The commute home of walkers and cyclists on average contributed 35% of their total free-living PA. However, there was no significant difference in the overall free-living PA levels of passive and active commuters (P > .05). A total 92.7% of the youth living within 1.5 miles of the school actively commuted, compared with 16.7% of the youth who lived further away. Socioeconomic differences in commuting patterns were also evident.

Conclusions:

The findings highlighted the significant proportion of total free-living PA that was attributed to active commuting home from school. The study demonstrates the usefulness of utilizing GPS and heart rate data to accurately track young people’s after-school PA. Demographic influences and implications for future research are discussed.
Intensity-Specific Leisure-Time Physical Activity and The Built Environment Among Brazilian Adults: A Best-Fit Model
Authors: Salvo Deborah , Reis Rodrigo S. , Hino Adriano A.F. , Hallal Pedro C. , Pratt Michael
Published: April 2014

Background:

There is little understanding about which sets of environmental features could simultaneously predict intensity-specific leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) among Brazilians. The objectives were to identify the environmental correlates for intensity-specific LTPA, and to build the best-fit linear models to predict intensity-specific LTPA among adults of Curitiba, Brazil.

Methods:

Cross sectional study in Curitiba, Brazil (2009, n = 1461). The International Physical Activity Questionnaire and Abbreviated Neighborhood Environment Assessment Scale were used. Ninety-two perceived environment variables were categorized in 10 domains. LTPA was classified as walking for leisure (LWLK), moderate-intensity leisure-time PA (MLPA), vigorous-intensity leisure-time PA (VLPA), and moderate-to-vigorous intensity leisure-time PA (MVLPA). Best fitting linear predictive models were built.

Results:

Forty environmental variables were correlated to at least 1 LTPA outcome. The variability explained by the 4 best-fit models ranged from 17% (MLPA) to 46% (MVLPA). All models contained recreation areas and aesthetics variables; none included residential density predictors. At least 1 neighborhood satisfaction variable was present in each of the intensity-specific models, but not for overall MVLPA.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates the simultaneous effect of sets of perceived environmental features on intensity-specific LTPA among Brazilian adults. The differences found compared with high-income countries suggest caution in generalizing results across settings.
Reproducibility of the Veterans Physical Activity Questionnaire in an Elderly Population
Authors: Betz Heather Hayes , Myers Jonathan , Jaffe Alyssa , Smith Kimberly , Dalman Ronald
Published: April 2014

Background:

Quantifying lifetime physical activity using self-reported measures is challenging due to reliance on recall, especially in older populations. The purpose of this study was to determine the 1-year reproducibility of the Veterans Physical Activity Questionnaire (VAPAQ) in a cohort of patients with documented abdominal aortic aneurysm disease (AAA).

Methods:

Subjects included men (n = 52) and women (n = 3) enrolled in AAA STOP, a randomized trial designed to test the ability of supervised exercise training to modify AAA biology and early disease progression.

Results:

The overall correlation coefficient for lifetime recreational energy expenditure between the 2 examinations was 0.93 (P < .001), with an overall difference of 26 kcal/week, a typical error (standard deviation of the differences) of 171 kcals/week, and a coefficient of variation (CV) of 15.5%.

Conclusions:

The VAPAQ is a reproducible tool to quantify lifetime energy expenditure in older adults with documented vascular disease.
Energy Expenditure in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury Quantified by Doubly Labeled Water and a Multi-Sensor Armband
Authors: Tanhoffer Ricardo A. , Tanhoffer Aldre I.P. , Raymond Jacqueline , Johnson Nathan A. , Hills Andrew P. , Davis Glen M.
Published: April 2014

Background:

The objective of this study was to determine whether doubly labeled water (DLW) and a multi-sensor armband (SWA) could detect the variation in energy expenditure incurred by a period of increased exercise (EXE) versus a period of high sedentary activity (SED), in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods:

Eight participants with SCI were submitted to 2 testing periods of energy expenditure assessment: 1) a 14-day phase during which sedentary living conditions were imposed and 2) a 14-day phase during which an exercise training intervention was employed. For each phase, total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) and physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) were measured by DLW and SWA.

Results:

Mean TDEE assessed by DLW, was significantly higher during EXE versus SED (11,605 ± 2151 kJ·day-1 and 10,069 ± 2310 kJ·day-1). PAEE predicted by DLW was also significantly higher during EXE versus SED (5422 ± 2240 kJ·day-1 and 3855 ± 2496 kJ·day-1). SWA-predicted PAEE significantly underestimated PAEE measured by the DLW during SED and EXE.

Conclusion:

DLW is sensitive to detect variation in within-individual energy expenditure during voluntary increase in physical activity in individuals with SCI. SWA failed to detect statistically significant variations in energy expenditure between periods of high versus low activity in SCI.
Improvements on Cardiovascular Diseases Risk Factors in Obese Adolescents: A Randomized Exercise Intervention Study
Authors: Silva Humberto José Gomes , Andersen Lars Bo , Lofrano-Prado Mara Cristina , Barros Mauro V.G. , Freitas Ismael Fortes , Hill James , do Prado Wagner Luiz
Published: April 2014

Background:

It is unclear how different exercise intensities affect cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors in obese adolescents. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of high-intensity (HIT) vs. low-intensity (LIT) aerobic training on CVD risk factors in obese adolescents.

Methods:

Forty-three obese adolescents (age: 15.7 ± 1.3 years, BMI: 34.3 ± 4.1kg/m2) participated this study either HIT (corresponding to ventilatory threshold I; N = 20) or LIT (20% below ventilatory threshold I; N = 23) for 12 weeks. All sessions were isocaloric (350 kcal). All participants received the same nutritional, psychological, and clinical counseling. Subjects were assessed in fatness, fitness, lipid profile, and glucose at baseline and after 12 weeks. The CVD risk factors assessed were waist circumference (WC), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), glucose, and fitness, which were single and clustered analyzed (z scores sum).

Results:

Body mass, Body Mass Index, fatness, and WC were improved (P < .001) in both groups. The sum of z scores (WC + TC + glucose-fitness-HDL) improved in both HIT (12 weeks = −2.16 SD; Cohen’s d = .45) and LIT (12 weeks = −2.13 SD; Cohen’s d = .60) without groups differences. Changes in fitness were associated with changes in WC (r = −.48; P = .003).

Conclusion:

HIT does not promote any additional improvements in CVD risk factors than LIT in obese adolescents.
Playground Safety is Associated With Playground, Park, and Neighborhood Characteristics
Authors: Suminski Richard , Presley Terry , Wasserman Jason A. , Mayfield Carlene A. , McClain Elizabeth , Johnson Mariah
Published: April 2014

Background:

More than 200,000 children each year are treated at emergency departments for injuries occurring on playgrounds. Empirically derived data are needed to elucidate factors associated with playground safety and reduce injury rates.

Objective:

Determine if neighborhood, park and playground characteristics are significantly associated with playground safety.

Methods:

A 24-item report card developed by the National Program for Playground Safety was used to assess playground safety at 41 public parks in a small to midsized, Midwestern city. Trained assessors evaluated the parks and playgrounds in June/July and used a standardized method to count the numbers of users. Data from the 2010 U.S. Census were used to describe the neighborhoods surrounding the parks.

Results:

The average safety score for all playgrounds was 77.4% which denotes acceptable safety levels. However, 17.1% of the playgrounds were potentially hazardous and in need of corrective measures. Playgrounds were safer in neighborhoods with more youth (< 18 years of age) and educated adults and in parks with better quality features. Playgrounds with fewer amenities were relatively less safe.

Conclusions:

Park safety levels need to be improved to reduce the risk of physical injuries. Future studies examining cause-effect associations between environmental features and playground safety are warranted.
TV Watching, but Not Physical Activity, Is Associated With Change in Kidney Function in Older Adults
Authors: Hawkins Marquis , Newman Anne B. , Madero Magdalena , Patel Kushang V. , Shlipak Michael G. , Cooper Jennifer , Johansen Kirsten L. , Navaneethan Sankar D. , Shorr Ronald I. , Simonsick Eleanor M. , Fried Linda F
Published: April 2014

Background:

Physical activity (PA) may play a role in preserving kidney health. The purpose of this study was to determine if PA and sedentary behavior are associated with incident chronic kidney disease (CKD) and change in kidney function in older adults.

Methods:

The Health, Aging, and Body Composition study is a prospective cohort of 3075 well-functioning older adults. PA and television watching was measured by self-report, and serum cystatin C was used to estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). CKD was defined as an eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73m2. Rapid kidney function decline was defined as an annual loss in eGFR of >3ml/min/1.73m2. Discrete survival analysis was used to determine if baseline PA and television watching were related to 10-year cumulative incidence of CKD and rapid decline in kidney function.

Results:

Individuals who reported watching television >3 hours/day had a higher risk of incident CKD (HR 1.34; 95% CI, 1.09-1.65) and experiencing a rapid decline in kidney function (HR 1.26; 95% CI, 1.05-1.52) compared with individuals who watched television <2 hours/day. PA was not related to either outcome.

Conclusions:

High levels of television watching are associated with declining kidney function; the mechanisms that underlie this association need further study.
Perceived Neighborhood Size: Implications for Physical Activity–Environment Research
Authors: Suminski Richard , Heinrich Katie , Wasserman Jason A. , Rasu Rafia S.
Published: April 2014

Background:

Nonsignificant findings are reported in approximately half of the studies examining correlations between environmental characteristics and walking. One reason could involve spatial incongruence in which environments examined are not necessarily the ones where the behavior occurred.

Purpose:

To study correlates of perceived neighborhood size and the congruence between perceived and investigator defined neighborhood areas.

Methods:

Door-to-door surveys were conducted in 12 U.S. Census block groups with 18- to 87-year-old adults. Participants were asked about exercise participation and to draw a map representing their neighborhood. Geographical information software was used to construct maps, calculate neighborhood areas, and analyze congruence.

Results:

Neighborhood sizes perceived by women were smaller than those perceived by men and positively related to min/wk of biking and education. Education and age were negatively and perceived neighborhood support for exercise was positively associated with perceived neighborhood size in men. Approximately 90% of perceived neighborhood areas overlapped with neighborhood areas defined by circles with 1200-m radii from participants’ homes.

Conclusions:

Several individual characteristics including exercise are associated with perceptions of neighborhood size. Standard investigator-defined neighborhoods using a 1200-m radius (15 min walk) from a participant’s home is sufficient to capture a majority of perceived neighborhood areas.
Response to Comment on “A Complete Skull from Dmanisi, Georgia, and the Evolutionary Biology of Early
Homo
”
Authors: Zollikofer Christoph P. E. , Ponce de León Marcia S. , Margvelashvili Ann , Rightmire G. Philip , Lordkipanidze David
Published: April 2014

Schwartz
et al
. hold that variation among the Dmanisi skulls reflects taxic diversity. The morphological observations to support their hypothesis, however, are partly incorrect, and not calibrated against intraspecific variation in living taxa. After proper adjustment, Schwartz
et al
.’s data are fully compatible with the hypothesis of a single paleodeme of early
Homo
at Dmanisi.
Carbon Storage in Basalt
Authors: Gislason Sigurdur R. , Oelkers Eric H.
Published: April 2014

Field projects are beginning to demonstrate the potential for carbon storage in basaltic rocks.
Cryo-EM Study of the Chromatin Fiber Reveals a Double Helix Twisted by Tetranucleosomal Units
Authors: Song Feng , Chen Ping , Sun Dapeng , Wang Mingzhu , Dong Liping , Liang Dan , Xu Rui-Ming , Zhu Ping , Li Guohong
Published: April 2014

Double Helix, Doubled

Chromatin consists of genomic DNA packaged onto nucleosomes—double donut-shaped complexes of histone proteins. Roughly 150 base pairs of DNA are wrapped around each nucleosome with variable lengths of linker DNA in-between. Using cryogenic electron microscopy,

Song
et al.

(p.
376
; see the Perspective by

Travers

) determined the 11 angstrom–resolution structure of a 12-nucleosome string of DNA. The segment forms a 30-nanometer fiber structure, which is itself double-helical, like the DNA it packages.
Analyzing Moon Rocks
Authors: Anand Mahesh
Published: April 2014

A better inventory of lunar volatiles will help improve our understanding of the origin and evolution of the Earth-Moon system.

[Also see Report by

Boyce
et al.

]
Silencing Neurons with Light
Authors: Hayashi Shigehiko
Published: April 2014

Engineered channelrhodopsins conduct anions rather than cations, changing the action potential of neurons.

[Also see Reports by

Wietek
et al.

and

Berndt
et al.

]
Mapping Neural Activation onto Behavior in an Entire Animal
Authors: O'Leary Timothy , Marder Eve
Published: April 2014

A combination of technologies reveals which neurons constitute circuits for specific behaviors in
Drosophila
larvae.

[Also see Research Article by

Vogelstein
et al.

]
Genome Yields Clues to Tsetse Fly's Strange and Deadly Ways
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: April 2014

Sequencing the genome and assessing gene activity in various tissues in the tsetse fly led to new insights into its biology and the control of parasitic diseases transmitted by this insect.
Targeting Telomeres in Human Disease: Advances and Therapeutic Opportunities
Authors: Reddel Roger , Agarwal Suneet
Published: April 2014

The maintenance of telomeres—the structures of repetitive sequences as the end of a chromatid—is essential to the health of a cell. Dysfunction in telomere maintenance pathways plays an integral role in aging, cancer, and certain rare diseases such as dyskeratosis congenita (DC). The molecular analysis of telomere length, telomerase levels, and activation of the Alternative Lengthening of Telomeres (ALT) pathway are currently being used as prognostic tools in human diseases. This has led to telomere maintenance as a prime target for patient therapies. Studies have shown the modification of TERC (TElomerase RNA Component) expression may be therapeutically beneficial in DC patients. Additionally, current research is targeting telomere lengthening mechanisms as a cancer therapy. In this webinar, our experts will describe the advances in telomere research as it applies to human health and how deeper characterization of the telomerase maintenance process can uncover targets for therapies.
A Pregnant Pause in Pancreatic Function
Authors: Haldar Saptarsi M.
Published: April 2014

The furan fatty acid metabolite CMPF might drive pathogenesis of gestational and type 2 diabetes in humans.
SNFing for Clues to the Genetics of Autism
Authors: Mefford Heather C.
Published: April 2014

Mutations in the
ADNP
gene, which encodes a component of a nucleosome remodeling complex, play a role in some cases of autism spectrum disorder.
Mycoplasma genitalium Infection Is Associated with Microscopic Signs of Cervical Inflammation in Liquid Cytology Specimens
Authors: Dehon Patricia M. , McGowin Chris L.
Published: April 2014

Cervicitis is a common clinical finding often attributed to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but no etiologic agent is identified in the majority of cases. In this study, we comparatively assessed inflammation among the common infectious etiologies of cervicitis and assessed the potential value of liquid cytology specimens for predicting STIs. Among 473 Louisiana women at low risk for acquiring STIs, the prevalences of
Mycoplasma genitalium
,
Chlamydia trachomatis
,
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
, and
Trichomonas vaginalis
in liquid-based cytology specimens were 1.5, 2.1, 0.6, and 4.4%, respectively.
N. gonorrhoeae
and human papillomavirus 18 (HPV18) infections were significantly more common among subjects infected with
M. genitalium
. Using direct microscopy, we observed significant increases in leukocyte infiltrates among subjects with monoinfections with
M. genitalium
or
C. trachomatis
compared to women with no detectable STIs. Inflammation was highest among subjects with
M. genitalium
. Using a threshold of ≥2 leukocytes per epithelial cell per high-powered field, the positive predictive values for
M. genitalium
,
C. trachomatis
,
N. gonorrhoeae
, and
T. vaginalis
were 100, 70, 67, and 20%, respectively. Several novel
M. genitalium
genotypes were identified, all of which were predicted to be susceptible to macrolide antibiotics, suggesting that different strains may circulate among low-risk women and that macrolide resistance is substantially lower than in high-risk populations. This study highlights the capacity of
M. genitalium
to elicit cervical inflammation and, considering the strong epidemiologic associations between
M. genitalium
and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), provides a potential mechanism for acquisition and shedding of HIV via chronic leukocyte recruitment to the cervical mucosa.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli Isolates Obtained in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, from 2002 to 2013
Authors: Gaudreau Christiane , Boucher France , Gilbert Huguette , Bekal Sadjia
Published: April 2014

From 2002 to 2013 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 38Campylobacter coliisolates were more frequently erythromycin, tetracycline, and ciprofloxacin resistant than 440Campylobacter jejunisubsp.jejuniisolates (18.4% versus 1.8%;P= 0.00005), of which the 148 isolates acquired abroad were more frequently erythromycin, tetracycline, and ciprofloxacin resistant than the 292 isolates acquired locally (5.4% versus 0%;P= 0.0001).
CarbAcineto NP Test for Rapid Detection of Carbapenemase-Producing Acinetobacter spp
Authors: Dortet Laurent , Poirel Laurent , Errera Caroline , Nordmann Patrice
Published: April 2014

Multidrug-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
isolates, particularly those that produce carbapenemases, are increasingly reported worldwide. The biochemically based Carba NP test, extensively validated for the detection of carbapenemase producers among
Enterobacteriaceae
and
Pseudomonas
spp., has been modified to detect carbapenemase production in
Acinetobacter
spp. A collection of 151 carbapenemase-producing and 69 non-carbapenemase-producing
Acinetobacter
spp. were tested using the Carba NP test and a modified Carba NP protocol (the CarbAcineto NP test) in this study. The CarbAcineto NP test requires modified lysis conditions and an increased bacterial inoculum compared to those of the original Carba NP test. The Carba NP test detects metallo-β-lactamase producers but failed to detect the production of other carbapenemase types among
Acinetobacter
spp. In contrast, the newly designed CarbAcineto NP test, which is rapid and reproducible, detects all types of carbapenemases with a sensitivity of 94.7% and a specificity of 100%. This cost-effective technique offers a reliable and affordable technique for identifying carbapenemase production in
Acinetobacter
spp., which is a marker of multidrug resistance in those species. Its use will facilitate the recognition of these carbapenemases and prevent their spread.
Multiplex PCR Assay for Unequivocal Differentiation of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae Serovars 1 to 3, 5 to 8, 10, and 12
Authors: Bossé Janine T. , Li Yanwen , Angen Øystein , Weinert Lucy A. , Chaudhuri Roy R. , Holden Matthew T. , Williamson Susanna M. , Maskell Duncan J. , Tucker Alexander W. , Wren Brendan W. , Rycroft Andrew N. , Langford Paul R.
Published: April 2014

An improved multiplex PCR, using redesigned primers targeting the serovar 3 capsule locus, which differentiates serovars 3, 6, and 8
Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
isolates, is described. The new primers eliminate an aberrant serovar 3-indicative amplicon found in some serovar 6 clinical isolates. Furthermore, we have developed a new multiplex PCR for the detection of serovars 1 to 3, 5 to 8, 10, and 12 along with
apxIV
, thus extending the utility of this diagnostic PCR to cover a broader range of isolates.
Current Status of Epidemiology and Diagnosis of Human Sarcocystosis
Authors: Poulsen Casper Sahl , Stensvold Christen Rune
Published: April 2014

Species of
Sarcocystis
are Apicomplexan parasites requiring intermediate and definitive hosts to complete their life cycle. Humans are one of many natural host species and may serve as both intermediate and definitive hosts. However, the extent and public health significance of human
Sarcocystis
infection are incompletely known. In this minireview, we provide an update on the epidemiology and diagnosis of human sarcocystosis and propose some tools that could contribute to a better understanding of the clinical significance and epidemiology of
Sarcocystis
infections.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry Can Accurately Differentiate Aeromonas dhakensis from A. hydrophila, A. caviae, and A. veronii
Authors: Chen Po-Lin , Lee Tai-Fen , Wu Chi-Jung , Teng Shih-Hua , Teng Lee-Jene , Ko Wen-Chien , Hsueh Po-Ren
Published: April 2014

Among 217
Aeromonas
isolates identified by sequencing analysis of their
rpoB
genes, the accuracy rates of identification of
A. dhakensis
,
A. hydrophila
,
A. veronii
, and
A. caviae
were 96.7%, 90.0%, 96.7%, and 100.0%, respectively, by the cluster analysis of spectra generated by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry.
Toll-Like Receptor 2-Mediated Innate Immune Responses against Junín Virus in Mice Lead to Antiviral Adaptive Immune Responses during Systemic Infection and Do Not Affect Viral Replication in the Brain
Authors: Cuevas Christian D. , Ross Susan R.
Published: April 2014

Successful adaptive immunity to virus infection often depends on the initial innate response. Previously, we demonstrated that Junín virus, the etiological agent responsible for Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF), activates an early innate immune response via an interaction between the viral glycoprotein and Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2). Here we show that TLR2/6 but not TLR1/2 heterodimers sense Junín virus glycoprotein and induce a cytokine response, which in turn upregulates the expression of the RNA helicases RIG-I and MDA5. NF-κB and Erk1/2 were important in the cytokine response, since both proteins were phosphorylated as a result of the interaction of virus with TLR2, and treatment with an Erk1/2-specific inhibitor blocked cytokine production. We show that the Junín virus glycoprotein activates cytokine production in a human macrophage cell line as well. Moreover, we show that TLR2-mediated immune response plays a role in viral clearance because wild-type mice cleared Candid 1 (JUNV C1), the vaccine strain of Junín virus, more rapidly than did TLR2 knockout mice. This clearance correlated with the generation of Junín virus-specific CD8
+
T cells. However, infected wild-type and TLR2 knockout mice developed TLR2-independent blocking antibody responses with similar kinetics. We also show that microglia and astrocytes but not neurons are susceptible to infection with JUNV C1. Although JUNV C1 infection of the brain also triggered a TLR2-dependent cytokine response, virus levels were equivalent in wild-type and TLR2 knockout mice.

IMPORTANCE
Junín virus is transmitted by rodents native to Argentina and is associated with both systemic disease and, in some patients, neurological symptoms. Humans become infected when they inhale aerosolized Junín virus. AHF has a 15 to 30% mortality rate, and patients who clear the infection develop a strong antibody response to Junín virus. Here we investigated what factors determine the immune response to Junín virus. We show that a strong initial innate immune response to JUNV C1 determines how quickly mice can clear systemic infection and that this depended on the cellular immune response. In contrast, induction of an innate immune response in the brain had no effect on virus infection levels. These findings may explain how the initial immune response to Junín virus infection could determine different outcomes in humans.
Host and Viral Determinants of Mx2 Antiretroviral Activity
Authors: Busnadiego Idoia , Kane Melissa , Rihn Suzannah J. , Preugschas Hannah F. , Hughes Joseph , Blanco-Melo Daniel , Strouvelle Victoria P. , Zang Trinity M. , Willett Brian J. , Boutell Chris , Bieniasz Paul D. , Wilson Sam J.
Published: April 2014

Myxovirus resistance 2 (Mx2/MxB) has recently been uncovered as an effector of the anti-HIV-1 activity of type I interferons (IFNs) that inhibits HIV-1 at an early stage postinfection, after reverse transcription but prior to proviral integration into host DNA. The mechanistic details of Mx2 antiviral activity are not yet understood, but a few substitutions in the HIV-1 capsid have been shown to confer resistance to Mx2. Through a combination of
in vitro
evolution and unbiased mutagenesis, we further map the determinants of sensitivity to Mx2 and reveal that multiple capsid (CA) surfaces define sensitivity to Mx2. Intriguingly, we reveal an unanticipated sensitivity determinant within the C-terminal domain of capsid. We also report that Mx2s derived from multiple primate species share the capacity to potently inhibit HIV-1, whereas selected nonprimate orthologs have no such activity. Like TRIM5α, another CA targeting antiretroviral protein, primate Mx2s exhibit species-dependent variation in antiviral specificity against at least one extant virus and multiple HIV-1 capsid mutants. Using a combination of chimeric Mx2 proteins and evolution-guided approaches, we reveal that a single residue close to the N terminus that has evolved under positive selection can determine antiviral specificity. Thus, the variable N-terminal region can define the spectrum of viruses inhibited by Mx2.

IMPORTANCE
Type I interferons (IFNs) inhibit the replication of most mammalian viruses. IFN stimulation upregulates hundreds of different IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs), but it is often unclear which ISGs are responsible for inhibition of a given virus. Recently, Mx2 was identified as an ISG that contributes to the inhibition of HIV-1 replication by type I IFN. Thus, Mx2 might inhibit HIV-1 replication in patients, and this inhibitory action might have therapeutic potential. The mechanistic details of how Mx2 inhibits HIV-1 are currently unclear, but the HIV-1 capsid protein is the likely viral target. Here, we determine the regions of capsid that specify sensitivity to Mx2. We demonstrate that Mx2 from multiple primates can inhibit HIV-1, whereas Mx2 from other mammals (dogs and sheep) cannot. We also show that primate variants of Mx2 differ in the spectrum of lentiviruses they inhibit and that a single residue in Mx2 can determine this antiviral specificity.
Structural Analysis of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Reveals the Position of M2-1 between the Matrix Protein and the Ribonucleoprotein Complex
Authors: Kiss Gabriella , Holl Jens M. , Williams Grant M. , Alonas Eric , Vanover Daryll , Lifland Aaron W. , Gudheti Manasa , Guerrero-Ferreira Ricardo C. , Nair Vinod , Yi Hong , Graham Barney S. , Santangelo Philip J. , Wright Elizabeth R.
Published: April 2014

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a member of the
Paramyxoviridae
family of nonsegmented, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA genome viruses, is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants, young children, and the elderly or immunocompromised. There are many open questions regarding the processes that regulate human RSV (hRSV) assembly and budding. Here, using cryo-electron tomography, we identified virus particles that were spherical, filamentous, and asymmetric in structure, all within the same virus preparation. The three particle morphologies maintained a similar organization of the surface glycoproteins, matrix protein (M), M2-1, and the ribonucleoprotein (RNP). RNP filaments were traced in three dimensions (3D), and their total length was calculated. The measurements revealed the inclusion of multiple full-length genome copies per particle. RNP was associated with the membrane whenever the M layer was present. The amount of M coverage ranged from 24% to 86% in the different morphologies. Using fluorescence light microscopy (fLM), direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM), and a proximity ligation assay (PLA), we provide evidence illustrating that M2-1 is located between RNP and M in isolated viral particles. In addition, regular spacing of the M2-1 densities was resolved when hRSV viruses were imaged using Zernike phase contrast (ZPC) cryo-electron tomography. Our studies provide a more complete characterization of the hRSV virion structure and substantiation that M and M2-1 regulate virus organization.

IMPORTANCE
hRSV is a leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in infants and young children as well as elderly or immunocompromised individuals. We used cryo-electron tomography and Zernike phase contrast cryo-electron tomography to visualize populations of purified hRSV in 3D. We observed the three distinct morphologies, spherical, filamentous, and asymmetric, which maintained comparable organizational profiles. Depending on the virus morphology examined, the amount of M ranged from 24% to 86%. We complemented the cryo-imaging studies with fluorescence microscopy, dSTORM, and a proximity ligation assay to provide additional evidence that M2-1 is incorporated into viral particles and is positioned between M and RNP. The results highlight the impact of M and M2-1 on the regulation of hRSV organization.