bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community Outreach and Engagement Strategies from the Wisconsin Study Center of the National Children's Study
Authors: Riesch Susan K. , Ngui Emmanuel M. , Ehlert Carey , Miller M. Katie , Cronk Christine A. , Leuthner Steven , Strehlow Mary , Hewitt Jeanne B. , Durkin Maureen S.
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this methods article was to describe and evaluate outreach and engagement strategies designed to initially build county‐wide awareness and support for the National Children's Study (NCS or the study) and subsequently to target the segment communities where recruitment for the study occurred. Selected principles from community outreach, social marketing, and health care system and personal referral formed the foundation for the strategies. The strategies included a celebration event, community advisory board, community needs assessment, building relationships with health care providers and systems, eliciting a network of study supporters, newsletters, appearances at local young family‐oriented events (health fairs, parades), presentations to local community leaders, community forums, “branding” with assistance from a women‐owned local marketing firm, and mailings including an oversized, second‐touch postcard. Six months after study launch, approximately 4,600 study‐eligible women were asked in a door‐to‐door survey if and how they became aware of the study. On average, 40% of eligible women reported being aware of the study. The most frequently cited strategy to cultivate their awareness was study‐specific mailings. Awareness of the NCS increased by 7.5% among those receiving a second‐touch postcard relative to controls (95% CIs [4.9, 10.7] z = 5.347, p < 0.0000, d = 0.16). Community outreach and engagement strategies, in particular the oversized postcard as a second‐touch effort, may be used effectively by researchers for participant recruitment and by public health nurses for delivery of important population‐focused messages.
An Integrative Review of Literature on the Determinants of Physical Activity Among Rural Women
Authors: Olsen Jeanette M.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this integrative review is to analyze current, non‐experimental literature to identify factors that influence physical activity levels in rural women with a goal of informing nurses and improving the effectiveness of future physical activity interventions in this population.

Design and Sample

Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology was used. The sample included 11 quantitative articles, seven qualitative studies, two studies that incorporated both methodologies, and one explanatory case study.

Measures

Each article was evaluated for quality using the American Association of Critical‐Care Nurses revised evidence leveling system. Data were analyzed and then synthesized using the Matrix Method.

Results

The terms “rural” and “physical activity” were diversely defined in the reviewed articles. The results revealed three categories of determinants: personal factors, socio‐economic factors, and physical environment factors.

Conclusions

Effective nursing interventions to promote physical activity should address barriers and motivating factors in all three categories of determinants for maximum efficacy. Additional research that clearly defines and consistently applies the terms “rural” and “physical activity” is needed to strengthen knowledge in this area.
Photochemical Degradation of the Plant Growth Regulator 2‐(1‐Naphthyl) acetamide in Aqueous Solution Upon UV Irradiation
Authors: Da Silva Eliana Sousa , Wong‐Wah‐Chung Pascal , Burrows Hugh D. , Sarakha Mohamed
Published: January 2013

The photochemical degradation of 2‐(1‐naphthyl) acetamide (NAD) in aqueous solution using simulated sunlight excitation as well as UV light within the 254–300 nm range was investigated to obtain an insight into the transformation mechanism that could occur under environmental conditions. Several photoproducts were identified using HPLC/MS/MS techniques. The degradation quantum yield was found to be independent of the excitation wavelength, but showed a dependence of oxygen concentration. This increased by a factor of approximately 3 from aerated to oxygen‐free solutions. There is a clear involvement of both triplet and singlet excited states in NAD photoreactivity. The participation of singlet oxygen as a significant route in NAD degradation was ruled out by comparison with the behavior using Rose Bengal as a photosensitizer. A mechanistic pathway implying hydroxylation process through NAD radical cation species as well as an oxidation reaction by molecular oxygen is proposed. The photochemical behavior of NAD appears to mainly involve the aromatic moieties without any participation of the amide side chain. Toxicity tests clearly show that the generated primary photoproducts are responsible for a significant increase in the toxicity. However, upon prolonged irradiation this toxicity tends to decrease.
The F‐prostaglandin receptor is a novel marker for tumor endothelial cells in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Akiyama Kosuke , Ohga Noritaka , Maishi Nako , Hida Yasuhiro , Kitayama Kazuko , Kawamoto Taisuke , Osawa Takahiro , Suzuki Yuko , Shinohara Nobuo , Nonomura Katsuya , Shindoh Masanobu , Hida Kyoko
Published: January 2013

Tumor angiogenesis is necessary for tumor progression and metastasis; therefore, tumor blood vessels are potential therapeutic targets in anticancer therapy. We previously reported that tumor endothelial cells (TECs) exhibit different phenotypes compared with normal endothelial cells (NECs), and microarray analyses of mouse TECs and NECs have shown that several genes are upregulated in TECs compared with NECs. Among these genes, the expression levels of prostaglandin F receptor (PTGFR) mRNA, which encodes the prostaglandin F receptor (FP), were higher in TECs than in NECs. It has been reported that FP and its ligand, prostaglandin F2α, are involved in tumor angiogenesis. However, there have been no reports of the expression of PTGFR in the tumor vessels of renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Thus, we isolated human TECs (hTECs) from RCCs. The expression levels of PTGFR mRNA were also upregulated in hTECs. In addition, immunostaining showed that the PTGFR was expressed in human tumor blood vessels in vivo. These findings suggested that PTGFR is a novel TEC marker and that it may be a novel target for antiangiogenic therapy for RCC.
Cucumber mosaic virus populations in Tunisian pepper crops are mainly composed of virus reassortants with resistance‐breaking properties
Authors: Ben Tamarzizt H. , Montarry J. , Girardot G. , Fakhfakh H. , Tepfer M. , Jacquemond M.
Published: January 2013

Cucumber mosaic virus is one of the most prevalent viruses in Tunisian pepper crops, where it has been detected in 68% of plants developing mosaic symptoms, making it essential to characterize the molecular and biological properties of local CMV populations. Two hundred and seventy‐eight isolates collected in the late 1990s, 2006 and 2008–2010 were characterized genetically. Isolates belonging to the three phylogenetic subgroups of CMV (IA, IB and II) were detected, but surprisingly, 90% of the isolates were reassortants between subgroups IA and IB, with two predominant haplotypes, IB‐IA‐IA and IB‐IA‐IB (nomenclature according to the subgrouping of the three genomic RNAs). The IB‐IA‐IA haplotype was present in all regions surveyed, while IB‐IA‐IB was observed only in northern Tunisia. This situation was unexpected, because CMV reassortants were previously thought to be counterselected in nature, and this raises the questions of the origin of IB strains in Tunisia and of the widespread distribution of these two reassortant types. Phylogenetic studies revealed low diversity within haplotypes, whatever the locality or the year of sampling. However, analysis of haplotype frequencies revealed a high genetic differentiation between CMV populations, which was better explained by the localities of sampling than by years. Geographic distances affected the differentiation of CMV populations, mainly between north and central Tunisia. When tested against a polygenic resistance to CMV movement in pepper, 55 of 57 isolates tested were able to break the resistance, indicating that this resistance would not be useful for controlling CMV in Tunisian pepper fields.
Distribution and genetic diversity of root‐knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) in potatoes from South Africa
Authors: Onkendi E. M. , Moleleki L. N.
Published: January 2013

A molecular‐based assay was employed to analyse and accurately identify various root‐knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) parasitizing potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) in South Africa. Using the intergenic region (IGS) and the 28S D2–D3 expansion segments within the ribosomal DNA (rDNA), together with the region between the cytochrome oxidase subunit II (COII) and the 16S rRNA gene of the mtDNA, 78 composite potato tubers collected from seven major potato growing provinces were analysed and all Meloidogyne species present were identified. During this study, M. incognita, M. arenaria, M. javanica, M. hapla, M. chitwoodi and M. enterolobii were identified. The three tropical species M. javanica, M. incognita and M. arenaria were identified as the most prevalent species, occurring in almost every region sampled. Meloidogyne hapla and M. enterolobii occurred in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu‐Natal, respectively, while M. chitwoodi was isolated from two growers located within the Free State. Results presented here form part of the first comprehensive surveillance study of root‐knot nematodes to be carried out on potatoes in South Africa using a molecular‐based approach. The three genes were able to distinguish various Meloidogyne populations from one another, providing a reliable and robust method for future use in diagnostics within the potato industry for these phytoparasites.
Dissipative Behaviour Analysis of Reprocessed Polyethylene Terephthalate using Digital Image Correlation and Updated Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Caro‐Bretelle A. S. , Ienny P. , Nait‐Ali L. K. , Bergeret A.
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a semi‐crystalline polyester that is usually processed by conventional methods. However, the degradation of this polyester during the melting process impacts its macroscopic behaviour, which is particularly true for recycled PET that is subjected to multiple processes at the melting temperature by extrusion, injection‐moulding or pelletizing. In this work, the impact of reprocessing on the mechanical properties of PET is studied. This approach requires exploring the influence of implementation on both its own mechanical performance factor and on the damage linked to the striction problem. An experimental protocol was developed to study large strain responses through a set of sequenced and instrumented uniaxial traction tests based on the standard ISO‐5272‐1‐A and hourglass geometries. Updated finite element simulations were coupled with digital image correlation, thereby providing access to the parameters of a phenomenological model. This coupled approach enables researchers to understand both the complex shape of the stress–strain curve and the well‐known dilatant mechanism that is observed during uniaxial deformation.
K‐Ar illite age constraints on the Proterozoic formation and reactivation history of a brittle fault in Fennoscandia
Authors: Viola Giulio , Zwingmann Horst , Mattila Jussi , Käpyaho Asko
Published: January 2013

K‐Ar ages of authigenic illite from two drill‐core gouge samples of a fault in the Palaeoproterozoic basement of Finland record two distinct faulting events. The older sample yields apparent ages from 1240 ± 26 to 1006 ± 21 Ma for four grain size fractions between 6 and <0.1 μm. The second sample is structurally younger and yields statistically distinct ages ranging from 978 ± 20 to 886 ± 18 Ma. We interpret the ages of the <0.1 m fractions, which are the youngest, as representing the actual time of faulting. XRD analysis and age modelling exclude significant age contamination of the finest dated fractions with inherited host rock components. These results provide therefore an example of meaningful isotopic dating of illite‐type clay material formed during Precambrian faulting, demonstrate and constrain fault reactivation and give evidence for brittle Sveconorwegian Mesoproterozoic shortening and Neoproterozoic extension in Fennoscandia.
Geophysical constraints on mesozoic disruption of North China Craton by underplating‐triggered lower‐crust flow of the Archaean lithosphere
Authors: Zhang Zhongjie , Wang Yanghua , Deng Yangfan , Chen Lin , Wu Jing , Teng Jiwen , Chen Yun , Fan Weiming , Panza Giuliano
Published: January 2013

The mechanism of the disruption, both lithospheric thinning and oceanization of the commonly accepted long‐term‐stable Archaean craton, is still an open question. The available models, all imply a bottom to top process. With the construction of a 1660‐km‐long transect across the eastern North China Craton (NCC), we demonstrate that both the P‐wave velocity and density in the lowermost crust beneath the central section are significantly higher than in the corresponding parts of the south and north sections on the transect. These features are interpreted as geophysical signature of lower crustal underplating, which supplies sufficiently high gravitational potential energy to trigger lateral flow of the lower crust. This magma underplating‐triggered bilateral lower crust flow may facilitate the lithospheric thinning by means of asthenosphere upwelling and decompression melting, which infill the gap produced by the lower crust flow. The underplating‐triggered lower crustal flow can provide an alternative mechanism to explain the NCC lithosphere disruption, which highlights the crustal feedback to Archaean lithosphere disruption, from top to bottom.
Fractional Hyperchaotic Telecommunication Systems: A New Paradigm
Authors: Razminia Abolhassan , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: January 2013

The dynamics of hyperchaotic and fractional-order systems have increasing attracted attention in recent years. In this paper, we mix two complex dynamics to construct a new telecommunication system. Using a hyperchaotic fractional order system, we propose a novel synchronization scheme between receiver and transmitter which increases the security of data transmission and communication. Indeed, this is first work that can open a new way in secure communication system.
The Effect of Dark Periods on the UV Photolytic and Photocatalytic Disinfection of Escherichia coli in a Continuous Flow Reactor
Authors: Misstear David B. , Murtagh John P. , Gill Laurence W.
Published: January 2013

An investigation into the effect of different lengths of intermittent light/dark periods on the photolytic and photocatalytic disinfection of Escherichia coli was undertaken at laboratory scale. Water containing E. coli was pumped around a laboratory scale compound parabolic collector and exposed to UV light in the presence and absence of titanium dioxide photocatalyst. By darkening sections of the reactor tubing, the illumination time and frequency were varied. The disinfection kinetics were studied, as well as the effective disinfection time received for each configuration. For photolysis, it was seen that the number of dark and light periods had very little effect on disinfection, once the illuminated area was kept constant, although having fewer light/dark interfaces was slightly favorable. It was also seen that an increase in the illuminated area reduced the efficiency of disinfection in relation to cumulative UV dose. In photocatalytic tests, it was found that increasing the frequency of light/dark periods, while keeping the illuminated area constant, had a beneficial effect on disinfection, both in terms of time to method detection limit (MDL) and effective disinfection time (EDT). In post irradiation tests, where samples were kept in the dark for 48 h after illumination, photocatalysis was seen to have a distinct advantage over photolysis, with total inactivation achieved within 60 min for all configurations, as opposed to a minimum of 180 min in photolytic tests. From an engineering design perspective, the above findings could lead to smaller, more efficient reactor configurations. The implications that more interruptions improve photocatalytic disinfection could be implemented by introducing light and dark periods into photocatalytic reactor systems, subject to further testing.
Enhance the Thermal Storage of Cement-Based Composites With Phase Change Materials and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Han Baoguo , Zhang Kun , Yu Xun
Published: January 2013

Phase change materials (PCM) have been incorporated with cementitious construction materials to store thermal energy and control interior climate in buildings, which can reduce the energy consumption and improve thermal comfort. However, addition of PCM is found to decrease strength and thermal conductivity of the cement-based composite. Carbon nanotubes (CNT) are integrated into cementitious construction materials with microencapsulated PCM to improve their thermal-conductive and mechanical performances. Results of lab and outdoor tests show the modified cement mortar containing both PCM and CNT exhibits better heat insulation properties than plain cement mortar. A temperature difference up to 6.8 °C was observed between interiors of two same size scale-down building models (one made of plain cement mortar, the other one made of cement mortar with PCM and CNT). This indicates that the modified cement mortar can effectively enhance the thermal storage property of cement-based building materials.
Integrated Modeling of Automotive Assembly Line With Material Handling
Authors: Chang Qing , Pan Chaoye , Xiao Guoxian , Biller Stephan
Published: January 2013

In an automotive production system, material handling is a critical activity in terms of increasing system efficiency and reducing overall cost. The existing literatures often separate the production system and material handling system, and ignore the coupling relations between the two systems. In this paper, an integrated modeling approach is developed to mathematically describe a dynamic production system including production operation and material handling system. A modified max-plus algebra based model with “shifting” mechanism is developed to overcome the synchronization constraints of traditional max-plus linear properties, and adapt to the dynamic change of the system under various conditions, such as starvation caused by material handling. The case study demonstrates that the new modeling approach is effective and efficient (180 times faster comparing with simulation method) in real-time system analytics and control to improve productivity and reduce cost.
Study on the Reduction Strategy of Machining-Induced Edge Chipping Based on Finite Element Analysis of In-Process Workpiece Structure
Authors: Gong Hu , Fang F. Z. , Zhang X. F. , Du Juan , Hu X. T.
Published: January 2013

Edge chipping is one of the most serious issues during machining process of brittle materials. To find an effective method to reduce edge chipping, the relationship between the distribution of maximum principal stress and edge chipping is studied comprehensively based on 3D finite element analysis (FEA) model of in-process workpiece structure in this paper. Three-level influencing factors of edge chipping are proposed, which are helpful to understand the relationship between intuitive machining parameters and edge chipping at different levels. Based on the analysis, several experiments are designed and conducted for drilling and slotting to study the strategy of controlling edge chipping. Two methods are adopted: (a) adding additional support, (b) improving tool path. The result show that edge chipping can be reduced effectively by optimizing the distribution of the maximum principal stress during the machining process. Further, adding addtitional support method is extended to more complex parts and also obtain a good result. Finally, how to use adding additional support method, especially for complex parts, will be discussed in detail. Several open questions are raised for future research.
Moment Lyapunov Exponents and Stochastic Stability of a Three-Dimensional System on Elastic Foundation Using a Perturbation Approach
Authors: Stojanović Vladimir , Petković Marko
Published: January 2013

In this paper, the stochastic stability of the three elastically connected Euler beams on elastic foundation is studied. The model is given as three coupled oscillators. Stochastic stability conditions are expressed by the Lyapunov exponent and moment Lyapunov exponents. It is determined that the new set of transformation for getting Ito∧ differential equations can be applied for any system of three coupled oscillators. The method of regular perturbation is used to determine the asymptotic expressions for these exponents in the presence of small intensity noises. Analytical results are presented for the almost sure and moment stability of a stochastic dynamical system. The results are applied to study the moment stability of the complex structure with influence of the white noise excitation due to the axial compressive stochastic load.
Combined in Vivo/in Vitro Method to Study Anteriomedial Bundle Strain in the Anterior Cruciate Ligament Using a Dynamic Knee Simulator
Authors: Cassidy Karla , Hangalur Gajendra , Sabharwal Preet , Chandrashekar Naveen
Published: January 2013

The mechanism of noncontact anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is not well understood. It is partly because previous studies have been unable to relate dynamic knee muscle forces during sports activities such as landing from a jump to the strain in the ACL. We present a combined in vivo/in vitro method to relate the muscle group forces to ACL strain during jump-landing using a newly developed dynamic knee simulator. A dynamic knee simulator system was designed and developed to study the sagittal plane biomechanics of the knee. The simulator is computer controlled and uses six powerful electromechanical actuators to move a cadaver knee in the sagittal plane and to apply dynamic muscle forces at the insertion sites of the quadriceps, hamstring, and gastrocnemius muscle groups and the net moment at the hip joint. In order to demonstrate the capability of the simulator to simulate dynamic sports activities on cadaver knees, motion capture of a live subject landing from a jump on a force plate was performed. The kinematics and ground reaction force data obtained from the motion capture were input into a computer based musculoskeletal lower extremity model. From the model, the force-time profile of each muscle group across the knee during the movement was extracted, along with the motion profiles of the hip and ankle joints. This data was then programmed into the dynamic knee simulator system. Jump-landing was simulated on a cadaver knee successfully. Resulting strain in the ACL was measured using a differential variable reluctance transducer (DVRT). Our results show that the simulator has the capability to accurately simulate the dynamic sagittal plane motion and the dynamic muscle forces during jump-landing. The simulator has high repeatability. The ACL strain values agreed with the values reported in the literature. This combined in vivo/in vitro approach using this dynamic knee simulator system can be effectively used to study the relationship between sagittal plane muscle forces and ACL strain during dynamic activities.
Study on the etching characteristics of amorphous carbon layer in oxygen plasma with carbonyl sulfide
Authors: Kim Jong Kyu , Cho Sung Il , Kim Nam Gun , Jhon Myung S. , Min Kyung Suk , Kim Chan Kyu , Yeom Geun Young
Published: January 2013

Carbonyl sulfide (COS) was added to oxygen as the additive etch gas for etching of amorphous carbon layers (ACL), and its effect on the etching characteristics of ACLs as the etch mask for high aspect ratio contact SiO2 etching was investigated. When a 50 nm amorphous carbon hole was etched in a gas mixture of O2 + 5% COS, not only did the etch profile of the ACL change more anisotropically but also the top/bottom opening ratio of the etch profile was improved by about 37% compared to those etched without COS. The improved ACL etch characteristics were related to the sidewall passivation of the amorphous carbon hole by the carbon sulfide related layer during the etching of the ACL. The distortion of the amorphous carbon hole was also reduced by about 6% due to the uniform deposition of the carbon sulfide related layer on the sidewall of the amorphous carbon hole. This uniform deposition improved the etch profile and opening ratio of the amorphous carbon hole, ultimately resulting in the enhanced contact oxide etching characteristics as evidenced by 5% improvement in the contact oxide opening and 20% improvement in the mask etch selectivity during the etching of an oxide having 20:1 high aspect ratio.
Ca
2+
-Dependent Phosphorylation of Ca
2+
Cycling Proteins Generates Robust Rhythmic Local Ca
2+
Releases in Cardiac Pacemaker Cells
Authors: Sirenko Syevda , Yang Dongmei , Li Yue , Lyashkov Alexey E. , Lukyanenko Yevgeniya O. , Lakatta Edward G. , Vinogradova Tatiana M.
Published: January 2013

Distinctive features in calcium cycling may explain the pacemaker activity of sinoatrial node cells in the heart.
Transcription Factor as Computer
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: January 2013

A yeast protein transforms stress signals into distinct dynamic responses according to the timing and strength of inputs.
Reconstituting Synaptic Vesicle Fusion
Authors: Hurtley Stella
Published: January 2013

A model of neurotransmitter release explains why two proteins not needed for membrane fusion in vitro are needed in vivo.
Metabolic Gatekeeper
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: January 2013

Loss of the kinase AMPK promotes the Warburg effect in cancer cells.
Randomized Phase 2 Trial To Evaluate the Clinical Efficacy of Two High-Dosage Tigecycline Regimens versus Imipenem-Cilastatin for Treatment of Hospital-Acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Ramirez Julio , Dartois Nathalie , Gandjini Hassan , Yan Jean Li , Korth-Bradley Joan , McGovern Paul C.
Published: January 2013

In a previous phase 3 study, the cure rates that occurred in patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia treated with tigecycline at the approved dose were lower than those seen with patients treated with imipenem and cilastatin (imipenem/cilastatin). We hypothesized that a higher dose of tigecycline is necessary in patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia. This phase 2 study compared the safety and efficacy of two higher doses of tigecycline with imipenem/cilastatin in subjects with hospital-acquired pneumonia. Subjects with hospital-acquired pneumonia were randomized to receive one of two doses of tigecycline (150 mg followed by 75 mg every 12 h or 200 mg followed by 100 mg every 12 h) or 1 g of imipenem/cilastatin every 8 h. Empirical adjunctive therapy was administered for initial coverage of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
infection, depending on the randomization regimen. Clinical response, defined as cure, failure of treatment, or indeterminate outcome, was assessed 10 to 21 days after the last day of therapy. In the clinically evaluable population, clinical cure with tigecycline 100 mg (17/20, 85.0%) was numerically higher than with tigecycline 75 mg (16/23, 69.6%) and imipenem/cilastatin (18/24, 75.0%). No new safety signals with the high-dose tigecycline were identified. A numerically higher clinical response was observed with the 100-mg dose of tigecycline. This supports our hypothesis that a higher area under the concentration-time curve over 24 h in the steady state divided by the MIC (AUC/MIC ratio) may be necessary to achieve clinical cure in patients with hospital-acquired pneumonia. Further studies are necessary. (The ClinicalTrials.gov identifier for this clinical trial is NCT00707239.)
Immunoadjuvant Chemotherapy of Visceral Leishmaniasis in Hamsters Using Amphotericin B-Encapsulated Nanoemulsion Template-Based Chitosan Nanocapsules
Authors: Asthana Shalini , Jaiswal Anil K. , Gupta Pramod K. , Pawar Vivek K. , Dube Anuradha , Chourasia Manish K.
Published: January 2013

The accessible treatment options for life-threatening neglected visceral leishmaniasis (VL) disease have problems with efficacy, stability, adverse effects, and cost, making treatment a complex issue. Here we formulated nanometric amphotericin B (AmB)-encapsulated chitosan nanocapsules (CNC-AmB) using a polymer deposition technique mediated by nanoemulsion template fabrication. CNC-AmB exhibited good steric stabilityin vitro, where the chitosan content was found to be efficient at preventing destabilization in the presence of protein and Ca2+. A toxicity study on the model cell line J774A and erythrocytes revealed that CNC-AmB was less toxic than commercialized AmB formulations such as Fungizone and AmBisome. The results ofin vitro(macrophage-amastigote system; 50% inhibitory concentration [IC50], 0.19 ± 0.04 μg AmB/ml) andin vivo(Leishmania donovani-infected hamsters; 86.1% ± 2.08% parasite inhibition) experiments in conjunction with effective internalization by macrophages illustrated the efficacy of CNC-AmB at augmenting antileishmanial properties. Quantitative mRNA analysis by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) showed that the improved effect was synergized with the upregulation of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-12 (IL-12), and inducible nitric oxide synthase and with the downregulation of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β), IL-10, and IL-4. These research findings suggest that a cost-effective CNC-AmB immunoadjuvant chemotherapeutic delivery system could be a viable alternative to the current high-cost commercial lipid-based formulations.
Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms Promote Horizontal Transfer of Antibiotic Resistance
Authors: Savage Victoria J. , Chopra Ian , O'Neill Alex J.
Published: January 2013

Growth as a biofilm facilitates the emergence of antibiotic resistance by mutation in
Staphylococcus aureus
. Here we demonstrate that biofilm growth of this species also dramatically increases horizontal transfer of plasmid-borne antibiotic resistance determinants by conjugation/mobilization and that standard laboratory practices to induce conjugation in staphylococci achieve optimal efficiency owing to the presence of a biofilm.
Evaluation of Recombinant 2009 Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Viruses Harboring Zanamivir Resistance Mutations in Mice and Ferrets
Authors: Pizzorno Andrés , Abed Yacine , Rhéaume Chantal , Bouhy Xavier , Boivin Guy
Published: January 2013

Recombinant influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 wild-type (WT) and zanamivir-resistant E119G and Q136K neuraminidase mutants were generated to determine their enzymatic and replicative propertiesin vitro, as well as their infectivity and transmissibility in mice and ferrets. Viral titers of recombinant E119G and Q136K mutants were significantly lower than those of the WT in the first 36 h postinoculation (p.i.)in vitro. The E119G and Q136K mutations were both associated with a significant reduction of total neuraminidase (NA) activity at the cell surface of 293T cells, with relative total NA activities of 14% (P< 0.01) and 20% (P< 0.01), respectively, compared to the WT. The E119G mutation significantly reduced the affinity (8-fold increase inKm) but not theVmax. The Q136K mutation increased the affinity (5-fold decrease inKm) with a reduction inVmax(8%Vmaxratio versus the WT). In mice, infection with the E119G and Q136K mutants resulted in lung viral titers that were significantly lower than those of the WT on days 3 p.i. (3.4 × 106± 0.8 × 106and 2.1 × 107± 0.4 × 107PFU/ml, respectively, versus 8.8 × 107± 1.1 × 107;P< 0.05) and 6 p.i. (3.0 × 105± 0.5 × 105and 8.6 × 105± 1.4 ×105PFU/ml, respectively, versus 5.8 × 107± 0.3 × 107;P< 0.01). In experimentally infected ferrets, the E119G mutation rapidly reverted to the WT in donor and contact animals. The Q136K mutation was maintained in ferrets, although nasal wash viral titers from the Q136K contact group were significantly lower than those of the WT on days 3 to 5 p.i. Our results demonstrate that zanamivir-resistant E119G and Q136K mutations compromise viral fitness and transmissibility in A(H1N1)pdm09 viruses.
Role of Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli Virulence Factors in Uropathogenesis
Authors: Boll Erik J. , Struve Carsten , Boisen Nadia , Olesen Bente , Stahlhut Steen G. , Krogfelt Karen A.
Published: January 2013

A multiresistant clonal
Escherichia coli
O78:H10 strain qualifying molecularly as enteroaggregative
Escherichia coli
(EAEC) was recently shown to be the cause of a community-acquired outbreak of urinary tract infection (UTI) in greater Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1991. This marks the first time EAEC has been associated with an extraintestinal disease outbreak. Importantly, the outbreak isolates were recovered from the urine of patients with symptomatic UTI, strongly implying urovirulence. Here, we sought to determine the uropathogenic properties of the Copenhagen outbreak strain and whether these properties are conferred by the EAEC-specific virulence factors. We demonstrated that through expression of aggregative adherence fimbriae, the principal adhesins of EAEC, the outbreak strain exhibited pronouncedly increased adherence to human bladder epithelial cells compared to prototype uropathogenic strains. Moreover, the strain was able to produce distinct biofilms on abiotic surfaces, including urethral catheters. These findings suggest that EAEC-specific virulence factors increase uropathogenicity and may have played a significant role in the ability of the strain to cause a community-acquired outbreak of UTI. Thus, inclusion of EAEC-specific virulence factors is warranted in future detection and characterization of uropathogenic
E. coli
.
Complications of facial fillers: resource implications for NHS hospitals
Authors: Hachach-Haram Nadine , Gregori Marco , Kirkpatrick Niall , Young Richard , Collier Jonathan
Published: January 2013

Facial rejuvenation seeks to reverse the negative sequelae of multiple factors but most importantly of genetic predisposition, sun damage and smoking. With the advent of the so-called ‘non-surgical’ techniques, and perhaps fuelled by these austere times, volumetric facial augmentation using dermal fillers has soared in popularity among both patients and practitioners. However, legislation has yet to keep pace with the change in clinical practices leaving patients poorly informed and with no protection against unscrupulous suppliers and unregulated practitioners. When things go wrong, patients often turn to the National Health Service (NHS) to rectify both the acute and chronic sequelae resulting in potentially difficult ethical and resource implications. Here, we report one of an increasing number of cases presenting to our NHS craniofacial service with acute filler-related complications.
SIADH and partial hypopituitarism in a patient with intravascular large B-cell lymphoma: a rare cause of a common presentation
Authors: Akhtar Simeen , Cheesman Edmund , Jude Edward B
Published: January 2013

Hyponatraemia is a very common electrolyte abnormality with varied presenting features depending on the underlying cause. The authors report the case of a 75-year-old, previously fit, gentleman who presented with weight loss, lethargy and blackouts. He required four admissions to the hospital over an 8-month period. Investigations revealed persistent hyponatraemia consistent with a diagnosis of syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, macrocytic anaemia and partial hypopituitarism. Unfortunately, all other investigations that were performed failed to identify the underlying cause and a diagnosis of intravascular large B-cell lymphoma was only confirmed following postmortem studies. The authors recommend that endocrinologists should be involved at the outset in the management of patients with persistent hyponatraemia and that intravascular large B-cell lymphoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of hyponatraemia.
Penicillium marneffeipresenting as an immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) in a patient with advanced HIV
Authors: Hall Charlotte , Hajjawi Rachel , Barlow Gavin , Thaker Hiten , Adams Kate , Moss Peter
Published: January 2013

A 62-year-old British man with advanced HIV was established on antiretroviral therapy and treatment for disseminatedMycobacterium aviumcomplex andCytomegalovirusinfections. One month later he re-presented with epigastric pain, an epigastric mass and skin lesions. Abdominal imaging revealed large volume lymphadenopathy, which was not present on previous imaging. Blood cultures yieldedPenicillium marneffei, a dimorphic fungus endemic to South-east Asia. The patient had spent several years travelling in Thailand prior to the diagnosis of HIV. Penicilliosis is a common AIDS-defining illness in endemic areas, but remains rare in Europe. In this case, it presented in the context of a rapidly decreasing viral load as an immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. The challenges of management in the context of multiple comorbidities and polypharmacy are discussed.
Rare vascular perforation complicating radial approach to percutaneous coronary angioplasty
Authors: Farooqi Fahad , Alexander John , Sarma Aditya
Published: January 2013

A transradial arterial approach to coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention has become increasingly embraced by cardiologists as it is associated with decreased vascular complications and allows early mobilisation of patients when compared with transfemoral arterial access. Major vascular complication post-transradial access is uncommon. We describe a very rare case of perforation of the costocervical trunk (a branch of the right subclavian artery at the site of the thoracic inlet) presenting shortly after percutaneous transradial coronary intervention. The resulting rapidly expanding cervical haematoma caused airway compromise necessitating emergent intubation in the catheter laboratory recovery area. Transfemoral catheter coil embolisation of the feeder artery was successful in obliterating blood flow to the perforated vessel with eventual resolution of the neck haematoma.
Stroke due to typical thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura treated successfully with intravenous thrombolysis and therapeutic plasma exchange
Authors: Boattini Matteo , Procaccianti Gaetano
Published: January 2013

We report a case of a 39-year-old man with expressive aphasia due to occlusion of the temporal stem of the left middle cerebral artery. Laboratory tests showed microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia and thrombocytopenia. A thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) was diagnosed, and thrombolytic therapy (TT) with alteplase followed by therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) were performed with complete resolution of symptoms. The gold standard TTP treatment is TPE, and its delay can be lethal. The use of TT in TTP is controversial and has potential risks. This case shows a successful TT in a patient with typical TTP presenting as a stroke due to a large cerebral artery occlusion.
A cohort study on psychosocial adjustment and psychopathology in adolescents and young adults with congenital heart disease
Authors: Freitas Isabela Ribeiro , Castro Marta , Sarmento Sofia Lourenço , Moura Cláudia , Viana Victor , Areias José Carlos , Areias Maria Emília Guimarães
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Our purpose was to study psychosocial adjustment and psychiatric morbidity of adolescents and young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Design

All assessment measures were obtained on a single occasion. Clinical data was obtained through the patient's clinical records.

Setting

A teaching and tertiary care facility in Porto, Portugal.

Participants

We evaluated 110 CHD patients (62 male) aged from 12 to 26 years (mean=18.00±3.617), 58 cyanotic. All assessment measures were obtained on a single occasion in a tertiary hospital. Demographic information and clinical history were collected.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Questionnaires regarded topics such as social support, family educational style, self-image and physical limitations, a standardised psychiatric interview Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia—Lifetime version (SADS-L), and a self-report questionnaire on psychosocial adjustment, youth self-report or adult self-report. One of the relatives completed an observational version of the same questionnaire (child behaviour checklist (CBCL) or ABCL (adult behaviour checklist)).

Results

We found a 21.8% lifetime prevalence of psychopathology, 31.3%, in females, 14.5% in males, showing a somewhat increased proneness in CHD patients. Females also showed worse psychosocial adjustment, with more somatic complaints (u=260 000; p=0.011), anxiety/depression (u=984 000; p=0.002), aggressive behaviour (u=920 500; p=0.001), attention problems (u=1123 500; p=0.027), thought problems (u=1069 500; p=0.010), internalisation (u=869 000; p=0.0) and externalisation (u=1163 000; p=0.05). Patients with severe CHD (u=939 000; p=0.03) and surgical repair (u=719 000; p=0.037) showed worse psychosocial adjustment. Those with poor social support showed more withdrawal (u=557 500; p=0.0) and social problems (u=748 500; p=0.023), and patients with unsatisfactory school performance revealed more anxiety/depression (u=916 000; p=0.02) and attention problems (u=861 500; p=0.007).

Conclusions

CHD males with good social support and good academic performance have a better psychosocial adjustment.
Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of a novel, group self-management course for adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain: study protocol for a multicentre, randomised controlled trial (COPERS)
Authors: Carnes Dawn , Taylor Stephanie JC , Homer Kate , Eldridge Sandra , Bremner Stephen , Pincus Tamar , Rahman Anisur , Underwood Martin
Published: January 2013

Introduction

Chronic musculoskeletal pain is a common condition that often responds poorly to treatment. Self-management courses have been advocated as a non-drug pain management technique, although evidence for their effectiveness is equivocal. We designed and piloted a self-management course based on evidence for effectiveness for specific course components and characteristics.

Methods/analysis

COPERS (coping with persistent pain, effectiveness research into self-management) is a pragmatic randomised controlled trial testing the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an intensive, group, cognitive behavioural-based, theoretically informed and manualised self-management course for chronic pain patients against a control of best usual care: a pain education booklet and a relaxation CD. The course lasts for 15 h, spread over 3 days, with a –2 h follow-up session 2 weeks later. We aim to recruit 685 participants with chronic musculoskeletal pain from primary, intermediate and secondary care services in two UK regions. The study is powered to show a standardised mean difference of 0.3 in the primary outcome, pain-related disability. Secondary outcomes include generic health-related quality of life, healthcare utilisation, pain self-efficacy, coping, depression, anxiety and social engagement. Outcomes are measured at 6 and 12 months postrandomisation. Pain self-efficacy is measured at 3 months to assess whether change mediates clinical effect.

Ethics/dissemination

Ethics approval was given by Cambridgeshire Ethics 11/EE/046. This trial will provide robust data on the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of an evidence-based, group self-management programme for chronic musculoskeletal pain. The published outcomes will help to inform future policy and practice around such self-management courses, both nationally and internationally.

Trial registration

ISRCTN24426731.
Hydrogen peroxide as oxidant in bio-mimetic catalysis by manganese porphyrin: Theoretical DFT studies
Authors: Drzewiecka-Matuszek Agnieszka , Rutkowska-Zbik Dorota , Witko Malgorzata
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study is to elucidate the geometry and electronic structure of various adducts that may be formed between manganese(III) (Mn(III)) porphyrin and hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide may interact with Mn(III) porphyrin either as H2O2 or, after dissociation, as OOH–. In the former, it may decompose into two hydroxo groups, which acquire OH– character or an oxo group (=O) and a water molecule. Therefore, the following systems are considered: MnP(H2O2)+, MnP(H2O2)(OH), MnP(OH)3, [Formula: see text], MnPO+, MnPO(OH), MnP(OOH), MnP(OOH)(OH)–, and the possible transformations between them are taken into account. The reported studies are performed within the Density Functional Theory (DFT) method with the GGA-BP functional. The geometry and electronic structures of the structures found along the studied reaction pathways are discussed in terms of interatomic distances, valence angles, Mulliken charges, and spin densities. It was found that different active oxygen species may be formed in the reaction between Mn(III) porphyrin and hydrogen peroxide. As manganese is a transition metal, numerous possible spin states for each of the studied structures are found, where the relative energies of different multiplicities depend strongly on the ligands present in the complex. In view of the catalytic properties, all oxygen-containing ligands are negatively charged, which results in their behaviour as nucleophiles towards hydrocarbons. Finally, the analysis of charge and spin populations on different parts of the studied systems indicate the porphyrin ligand as active in charge transfer processes.
Paleoenvironmental analysis of Ediacaran strata in the Catalina Dome, Bonavista Peninsula, Newfoundland
Authors: Mason Sara J. , Narbonne Guy M. , Dalrymple Robert W. , O'Brien Sean J.
Published: January 2013

Ediacaran strata in the Conception and St. John's groups that are exposed in the Catalina Dome, eastern Newfoundland, comprise a succession that is thinner but otherwise broadly similar to that known from the well-studied outcrops near Mistaken Point in southern Avalon Peninsula and Spaniard's Bay in northern Avalon. In all of these areas, strata consist of turbidites deposited in deep-water basin-plain and slope environments, but important differences help to constrain interpretations of basin history and Ediacaran paleobiology of eastern Newfoundland. A turbidite paleocurrent shift from easterly to southerly is consistent with the existing two-phase tectonic model for basin evolution previously proposed for the Avalon Peninsula. In the Catalina Dome, however, this shift occurred stratigraphically higher than at Mistaken Point but lower than at Spaniards Bay in the Avalon Peninsula. Probable seismoturbidites are common in the lower part of the Catalina succession, suggesting particularly active tectonism. Except in the very lowest 20 m of the succession (Drook and lowermost Mistaken Point formations) in which ash is absent, volcanic ash beds are both more common and more volumetrically significant throughout the succession than farther to the south and east, which suggests that deposition occurred closer to the volcanic arc. Volcanic ash beds persist higher stratigraphically, occurring within the Fermeuse Formation, which here contains diverse rangeomorph fossils in contrast with the low-diversity assemblage of Ediacaran discs prevalent in the Fermeuse Formation of the Avalon Peninsula. This distribution strongly reaffirms the importance of taphonomy in controlling the composition of deep-water Ediacaran assemblages.