bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrophoretic deposition of polymer and composite films
Authors: Yang L , Pang X , Fox-Rabinovich G , Veldhuis S , Zhitomirsky I
Published: September 2012

Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method has been developed for the fabrication of poly(4-vinylpyridine- co-butyl methacrylate) (PVPBM) films and composite PVPBM–CeO2 films. The deposition kinetics and mechanisms of cathodic EPD of pure PVPBM, CeO2 and composites were investigated and discussed. The surface charging and dispersion of CeO2 was achieved using trans-cinnamic acid (TCA). The influence of TCA concentration and solvent on the deposition efficiency was investigated. The thickness of the films was varied in the range of 0·5–15 μm. The composite films were obtained as PVPBM–CeO2 monolayers or PVPBM/PVPBM–CeO2 laminates. The deposition yield, film microstructure and composition were investigated.
Study of high temperature oxidation kinetics of Co–Al coating on superalloy
Authors: Rahman A , Jayaganthan R , Jain R K , Chandra R , Ambardar R
Published: September 2012

Nanostructured Co–Al coating on Superni-718 substrate was deposited by dc/rf magnetron sputtering. The high temperature oxidation kinetics of Co–Al coating on superalloy substrate was studied after 100 h of cyclic oxidation in air environment at 700–900°C. FE-SEM/EDS, AFM and XRD were used to characterise the microstructure, surface morphology and phase constituents of as deposited and oxidised coatings. The results indicate that the Co–Al coated superalloy substrate has higher oxidation resistance at 900°C. The presence of β-CoAl intermetallic phase in the Co–Al coating, the formation of Al2O3 and spinel phases such as CoCr2O4 and CoAl2O4 in the oxide scale are considered to be the reasons for the higher oxidation resistance shown by the Co–Al coated superalloy substrate after 100 h of cyclic oxidation in air at 900°C. Further, the oxide scale formed on the coated sample exhibits good spallation resistance during cyclic oxidation test at 900°C.
Electrocatalyst oxidation of formic acid on Pt nanoparticles/Ti electrode
Authors: Hosseini J , Bodaghi A
Published: September 2012

A potent catalyst, platinum nanoparticles (Pt-NPs) supported on titanium substrate (Pt-NPs/Ti), was prepared. The morphology and surface analysis of Pt-NPs/Ti electrodes were investigated using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy respectively. The results indicate that Pt-NPs are homogeneously deposited on the surface of titanium plates. Electrochemical characteristics of formic acid oxidation on Pt-NPs/Ti electrodes were investigated via cyclic voltammetric in mixed 0·1M formic acid and 0·1M H2SO4 solutions. The results were compared to those at a polycrystalline smooth platinum electrode. It was found that the electrocatalytic oxidation of formic acid on the Pt-NPs/Ti electrode increases the rate of formic acid electro-oxidation several times larger than a smooth platinum electrode and confirmed the better electrocatalytic activity and stability of Pt-NPs/Ti electrodes.
Effect of Si on morphology of alumina scales
Authors: Jamnapara N I , Avtani D U , Chauhan N L , Raole P M , Mukherjee S , Khanna A S
Published: September 2012

Hot dip aluminised coatings with pure Al, Al–3Si and Al–7Si melts had been produced on 9Cr–1Mo steels and subsequently heat treated at 900°C for 5 h under oxidising conditions to generate alumina films over Fe–Al diffused case. The characterisation of these samples by X-ray diffraction and SEM-EDX techniques indicated reduction in the post-heat treated aluminide case depth with increasing Si concentration. Further, it was observed that after oxidation heat treatment, pure Al coated samples indicated γ-Al2O3 and θ-Al2O3, while Al–7Si coated samples revealed transformation of metastable θ-Al2O3 phase to stable α-Al2O3 phase. The present paper describes change in morphology of oxide after thermal oxidation from γ to θ and θ to α as a function of the Si content of Al melt in hot dip aluminised 9Cr–1Mo steels. The effect of Si on the diffused aluminide case depth is also discussed.
A GWAS sequence variant for platelet volume marks an alternative DNM3 promoter in megakaryocytes near a MEIS1 binding site
Authors: Nürnberg Sylvia T. , Rendon Augusto , Smethurst Peter A. , Paul Dirk S. , Voss Katrin , Thon Jonathan N. , Lloyd-Jones Heather , Sambrook Jennifer G. , Tijssen Marloes R. ,   the HaemGen Consortium, Italiano Joseph E. , Deloukas Panos , Gottgens Berthold , Soranzo Nicole , Ouwehand Willem H.
Published: September 2012

We recently identified 68 genomic loci where common sequence variants are associated with platelet count and volume. Platelets are formed in the bone marrow by megakaryocytes, which are derived from hematopoietic stem cells by a process mainly controlled by transcription factors. The homeobox transcription factor MEIS1 is uniquely transcribed in megakaryocytes and not in the other lineage-committed blood cells. By ChIP-seq, we show that 5 of the 68 loci pinpoint a MEIS1 binding event within a group of 252 MK-overexpressed genes. In one such locus in DNM3, regulating platelet volume, the MEIS1 binding site falls within a region acting as an alternative promoter that is solely used in megakaryocytes, where allelic variation dictates different levels of a shorter transcript. The importance of dynamin activity to the latter stages of thrombopoiesis was confirmed by the observation that the inhibitor Dynasore reduced murine proplatelet for-mation in vitro.
Gene therapy for adenosine deaminase–deficient severe combined immune deficiency: clinical comparison of retroviral vectors and treatment plans
Authors: Candotti Fabio , Shaw Kit L. , Muul Linda , Carbonaro Denise , Sokolic Robert , Choi Christopher , Schurman Shepherd H. , Garabedian Elizabeth , Kesserwan Chimene , Jagadeesh G. Jayashree , Fu Pei-Yu , Gschweng Eric , Cooper Aaron , Tisdale John F. , Weinberg Kenneth I. , Crooks Gay M. , Kapoor Neena , Shah Ami , Abdel-Azim Hisham , Yu Xiao-Jin , Smogorzewska Monika , Wayne Alan S. , Rosenblatt Howard M. , Davis Carla M. , Hanson Celine , Rishi Radha G. , Wang Xiaoyan , Gjertson David , Yang Otto O. , Balamurugan Arumugam , Bauer Gerhard , Ireland Joanna A. , Engel Barbara C. , Podsakoff Gregory M. , Hershfield Michael S. , Blaese R. Michael , Parkman Robertson , Kohn Donald B.
Published: September 2012

We conducted a gene therapy trial in 10 patients with adenosine deaminase (ADA)–deficient severe combined immunodeficiency using 2 slightly different retroviral vectors for the transduction of patients' bone marrow CD34+ cells. Four subjects were treated without pretransplantation cytoreduction and remained on ADA enzyme-replacement therapy (ERT) throughout the procedure. Only transient (months), low-level (< 0.01%) gene marking was observed in PBMCs of 2 older subjects (15 and 20 years of age), whereas some gene marking of PBMC has persisted for the past 9 years in 2 younger subjects (4 and 6 years). Six additional subjects were treated using the same gene transfer protocol, but after withdrawal of ERT and administration of low-dose busulfan (65-90 mg/m2). Three of these remain well, off ERT (5, 4, and 3 years postprocedure), with gene marking in PBMC of 1%-10%, and ADA enzyme expression in PBMC near or in the normal range. Two subjects were restarted on ERT because of poor gene marking and immune recovery, and one had a subsequent allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. These studies directly demonstrate the importance of providing nonmyeloablative pretransplantation conditioning to achieve therapeutic benefits with gene therapy for ADA-deficient severe combined immunodeficiency.
CD8 T cells express randomly selected KIRs with distinct specificities compared with NK cells
Authors: Björkström Niklas K. , Béziat Vivien , Cichocki Frank , Liu Lisa L. , Levine Jeffrey , Larsson Stella , Koup Richard A. , Anderson Stephen K. , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Malmberg Karl-Johan
Published: September 2012

Epistatic interactions between killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs) and their cognate HLA class I ligands have important implications for reproductive success, antiviral immunity, susceptibility to autoimmune conditions and cancer, as well as for graft-versus-leukemia reactions in settings of allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Although CD8 T cells are known to acquire KIRs when maturing from naive to terminally differentiated cells, little information is available about the constitution of KIR repertoires on human CD8 T cells. Here, we have performed a high-resolution analysis of KIR expression on CD8 T cells. The results show that most CD8 T cells possess a restricted KIR expression pattern, often dominated by a single activating or inhibitory KIR. Furthermore, the expression of KIR, and its modulation of CD8 T-cell function, was independent of expression of self-HLA class I ligands. Finally, despite similarities in the stochastic regulation of KIRs by the bidirectional proximal promoter, the specificity of inhibitory KIRs on CD8 T cells was often distinct from that of natural killer cells in the same individual. The results provide new insight into the formation of KIR repertoires on human T cells.
A novel conditioning regimen improves outcomes in β-thalassemia major patients using unrelated donor peripheral blood stem cell transplantation
Authors: Li Chunfu , Wu Xuedong , Feng Xiaoqing , He Yuelin , Liu Huaying , Pei Fuyu , Liao Jianyu , He Lan , Shi Lei , Li Na , Liu Qiujun , Liu Shiting , Chen Geyu , Su Qingxia , Ren Yuqiong , Wang Yanhua , Tan Wanxia
Published: September 2012

We used a novel NF-08-TM transplant protocol based on intravenous busulfan, cyclophosphamide, fludarabine, and thiotepa in 82 consecutive patients with β-thalassemia major (TM), including 52 with allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) from unrelated donors (UDs) with well-matched human leukocyte antigens and 30 with hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from matched sibling donors (MSDs). The median age at transplantation was 6.0 years (range, 0.6-15.0 years), and the ratio of male-to-female patients was 56:26. The median follow-up time was 24 months (range, 12-39 months). The estimated 3-year overall survival and TM-free survival were 92.3% and 90.4% in the UD-PBSCT group and 90.0% and 83.3% in the MSD-HSCT group. The cumulative incidences of graft rejection and grades III-IV acute graft-versus-host disease were 1.9% and 9.6%, respectively, in the UD-PBSCT group and 6.9% and 3.6%, respectively, in the MSD-HSCT group. The cumulative incidence of transplant-related mortality was 7.7% in the UD-PBSCT group and 10.0% in the MSD-HSCT group. In conclusion, UD-PBSCTs using the well-tolerated NF-08-TM protocol show similar results to MSD-HSCTs and can be used to treat β-thalassemia patients in the absence of MSDs.
How I treat HHV8/KSHV-related diseases in posttransplant patients
Authors: Riva Giovanni , Luppi Mario , Barozzi Patrizia , Forghieri Fabio , Potenza Leonardo
Published: September 2012

Posttransplantation human herpesvirus-8 (HHV8)/Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) primary infection and/or reactivations are associated with uncommon and sometimes fatal, neoplastic, and non-neoplastic diseases. HHV8-related clinical manifestations notably range from Kaposi sarcoma (KS) to either primary effusion lymphoma or multicentric Castleman disease B-cell malignancies, and from polyclonal HHV8-positive plasmacytic lymphoproliferative disorders to bone marrow failure and peripheral cytopenias, associated or not with hemophagocytic syndromes, and to acute hepatitis syndromes. We reviewed the patient series reported in the literature and summarized clinical management aspects, in terms of diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment. We described typical clinical presentations and histopathologic diagnostic features of these diseases, and we discussed the role of HHV8-specific serologic, molecular, and immunologic assays, particularly focusing on recent data from HHV8-specific T-cell monitoring in posttransplantation KS patients. We finally discussed actual therapeutic options, namely, the reduction or discontinuation of immunosuppressive therapy or the switch from calcineurin inhibitors to mTOR inhibitors, as alternatives to antineoplastic chemotherapy, along with the use of antiherpesvirus agents as prophylactic or therapeutic measures, and treatment with rituximab in posttrans-plantation multicentric Castleman disease patients and non-neoplastic HHV8-associated syndromes.
SRSF2 mutations in primary myelofibrosis: significant clustering with IDH mutations and independent association with inferior overall and leukemia-free survival
Authors: Lasho Terra L. , Jimma Thitina , Finke Christy M. , Patnaik Mrinal , Hanson Curtis A. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Pardanani Animesh , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: September 2012

Among spliceosome component mutations, those involving SF3B1 are most frequent in myelodysplastic syndromes with ring sideroblasts (MDS-RS; ∼ 75% incidence) and SRSF2 in chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (∼ 28% incidence). We recently reported on the lack of prognostic significance for SF3B1 mutations in both MDS-RS and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). In the current study, we examined the prevalence and prognostic relevance of SRSF2 mutations in PMF. Among 187 patients screened, 32 (17%) harbored SRSF2 monoallelic mutations affecting residue P95. Significant associations were demonstrated between SRSF2 mutations and advanced age (P < .01), IDH mutations (P < .01), and higher DIPSS-plus risk category (P = .03). SRSF2 mutations were associated with shortened overall (P < .01) and leukemia-free (P < .01) survival; the adverse effect on survival was independent of DIPSS-plus (P = .01; HR = 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1-3.0) and IDH mutations (P < .01; HR = 2.3; 95% CI, 1.4-3.8). In conclusion, SRSF2 mutations are relatively common in PMF, cluster with IDH mutations, and are independently predictive of poor outcome.
Signaling through cannabinoid receptor 2 suppresses murine dendritic cell migration by inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase 9 expression
Authors: Adhikary Sabina , Kocieda Virginia P. , Yen Jui-Hung , Tuma Ronald F. , Ganea Doina
Published: September 2012

Administration of cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2R) agonists in inflammatory and autoimmune disease and CNS injury models results in significant attenuation of clinical disease, and reduction of inflammatory mediators. Previous studies reported that CB2R signaling also reduces leukocyte migration. Migration of dendritic cells (DCs) to various sites is required for their activation and for the initiation of adaptive immune responses. Here, we report for the first time that CB2R signaling affects DC migration in vitro and in vivo, primarily through the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) expression. Reduced MMP-9 production by DCs results in decreased migration to draining lymph nodes in vivo and in vitro in the matrigel migration assay. The effect on Mmp-9 expression is mediated through CB2R, resulting in reduction in cAMP levels, subsequent decrease in ERK activation, and reduced binding of c-Fos and c-Jun to Mmp-9 promoter activator protein 1 sites. We postulate that, by dampening production of MMP-9 and subsequent MMP-9–dependent DC migration, cannabinoids contribute to resolve acute inflammation and to reestablish homeostasis. Selective CB2R agonists might be valuable future therapeutic agents for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions by targeting activated immune cells, including DCs.
The Saccharomyces cerevisiae Hot1p regulated gene YHR087W (HGI1) has a role in translation upon high glucose concentration stress
Authors: Gomar-Alba M , Jiménez-Martí E , del Olmo M
Published: September 2012

Background

While growing in natural environments yeasts can be affected by osmotic stress provoked by high glucose concentrations. The response to this adverse condition requires the HOG pathway and involves transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms initiated by the phosphorylation of this protein, its translocation to the nucleus and activation of transcription factors. One of the genes induced to respond to this injury is YHR087W. It encodes for a protein structurally similar to the N-terminal region of human SBDS whose expression is also induced under other forms of stress and whose deletion determines growth defects at high glucose concentrations.

Results

In this work we show that YHR087W expression is regulated by several transcription factors depending on the particular stress condition, and Hot1p is particularly relevant for the induction at high glucose concentrations. In this situation, Hot1p, together to Sko1p, binds to YHR087W promoter in a Hog1p-dependent manner. Several evidences obtained indicate Yhr087wp’s role in translation. Firstly, and according to TAP purification experiments, it interacts with proteins involved in translation initiation. Besides, its deletion mutant shows growth defects in the presence of translation inhibitors and displays a slightly slower translation recovery after applying high glucose stress than the wild type strain. Analyses of the association of mRNAs to polysome fractions reveals a lower translation in the mutant strain of the mRNAs corresponding to genes GPD1, HSP78 and HSP104.

Conclusions

The data demonstrates that expression of Yhr087wp under high glucose concentration is controlled by Hot1p and Sko1p transcription factors, which bind to its promoter. Yhr087wp has a role in translation, maybe in the control of the synthesis of several stress response proteins, which could explain the lower levels of some of these proteins found in previous proteomic analyses and the growth defects of the deletion strain.
Novel variants of HMW glutenin subunits from Aegilops section Sitopsis species in relation to evolution and wheat breeding
Authors: Jiang Qian-Tao , Ma Jian , Wei Yu-Ming , Liu Ya-Xi , Lan Xiu-Jin , Dai Shou-Fen , Lu Zhen-Xiang , Zhao Shan , Zhao Quan-Zhi , Zheng You-Liang
Published: September 2012

Background

High molecular weight glutenin subunits (HMW-GSs), encoded by the genes at Glu-1 loci in wheat and its related species, are significant in the determination of grain processing quality. However, the diversity and variations of HMW-GSs are relatively low in bread wheat. More interests are now focused on wheat wild relatives in Triticeae. The genus Aegilops represents an important germplasm for novel HWM-GSs and other useful genes for wheat genetic improvement.

Results

Six novel Glu-1 alleles and HMW-GSs were identified and characterized from three species of Aegilops section Sitopsis (S genome). Both open reading frames (ORFs) and promoter regions of these Glu-1 alleles were sequenced and characterized. The ORFs of Sitopsis Glu-1 genes are approximately 2.9 kb and 2.3 kb for x-type and y-type subunits, respectively. Although the primary structures of Sitopsis HMW-GSs are similar to those of previously reported ones, all six x-type or y-type subunits have the large fragment insertions. Our comparative analyses of the deduced amino acid sequences verified that Aegilops section Sitopsis species encode novel HMW-GSs with their molecular weights larger than almost all other known HMW-GSs. The Glu-1 promoter sequences share the high homology among S genome. Our phylogenetic analyses by both network and NJ tree indicated that there is a close phylogenetic evolutionary relationship of x-type and y-type subunit between S and D genome.

Conclusions

The large molecular weight of HMW-GSs from S genome is a unique feature identified in this study. Such large subunits are resulted from the duplications of repetitive domains in Sitopsis HMW-GSs. The unequal crossover events are the most likely mechanism of variations in glutenin subunits. The S genome-encoded subunits, 1Dx2.2 and 1Dx2.2* have independent origins, although they share similar evolutionary mechanism. As HMW-GSs play a key role in wheat baking quality, these large Sitopsis glutenin subunits can be used as special genetic resources for wheat quality improvement.
Quantitative muscle strength assessment in duchenne muscular dystrophy: longitudinal study and correlation with functional measures
Authors: Lerario Alberto , Bonfiglio Serena , Sormani MariaPia , Tettamanti Andrea , Marktel Sarah , Napolitano Sara , Previtali Stefano , Scarlato Marina , Natali-Sora MariaGrazia , Mercuri Eugenio , Bresolin Nereo , Mongini Tiziana , Comi Giancarlo , Gatti Roberto , Ciceri Fabio , Cossu Giulio , Torrente Yvan
Published: September 2012

Background

The aim of this study was to perform a longitudinal assessment using Quantitative Muscle Testing (QMT) in a cohort of ambulant boys affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and to correlate the results of QMT with functional measures. This study is to date the most thorough long-term evaluation of QMT in a cohort of DMD patients correlated with other measures, such as the North Star Ambulatory Assessment (NSAA) or thee 6-min walk test (6MWT).

Methods

This is a single centre, prospective, non-randomised, study assessing QMT using the Kin Com® 125 machine in a study cohort of 28 ambulant DMD boys, aged 5 to 12 years. This cohort was assessed longitudinally over a 12 months period of time with 3 monthly assessments for QMT and with assessment of functional abilities, using the NSAA and the 6MWT at baseline and at 12 months only. QMT was also used in a control group of 13 healthy age-matched boys examined at baseline and at 12 months.

Results

There was an increase in QMT over 12 months in boys below the age of 7.5 years while in boys above the age of 7.5 years, QMT showed a significant decrease. All the average one-year changes were significantly different than those experienced by healthy controls. We also found a good correlation between quantitative tests and the other measures that was more obvious in the stronger children.

Conclusion

Our longitudinal data using QMT in a cohort of DMD patients suggest that this could be used as an additional tool to monitor changes, providing additional information on segmental strength.
Study Protocol. IDUS – Instrumental delivery & ultrasound. A multi-centre randomised controlled trial of ultrasound assessment of the fetal head position versus standard care as an approach to prevent morbidity at instrumental delivery
Authors: Murphy Deirdre J , Burke Gerard , Montgomery Alan A , Ramphul Meenakshi ,   The IDUS StudyGroup
Published: September 2012

Background

Instrumental deliveries are commonly performed in the United Kingdom and Ireland, with rates of 12 – 17% in most centres. Knowing the exact position of the fetal head is a pre-requisite for safe instrumental delivery. Traditionally, diagnosis of the fetal head position is made on transvaginal digital examination by delineating the suture lines of the fetal skull and the fontanelles. However, the accuracy of transvaginal digital examination can be unreliable and varies between 20% and 75%. Failure to identify the correct fetal head position increases the likelihood of failed instrumental delivery with the additional morbidity of sequential use of instruments or second stage caesarean section. The use of ultrasound in determining the position of the fetal head has been explored but is not part of routine clinical practice.

Methods/Design

A multi-centre randomised controlled trial is proposed. The study will take place in two large maternity units in Ireland with a combined annual birth rate of 13,500 deliveries. It will involve 450 nulliparous women undergoing instrumental delivery after 37 weeks gestation. The main outcome measure will be incorrect diagnosis of the fetal head position. A study involving 450 women will have 80% power to detect a 10% difference in the incidence of inaccurate diagnosis of the fetal head position with two-sided 5% alpha.

Discussion

It is both important and timely to evaluate the use of ultrasound to diagnose the fetal head position prior to instrumental delivery before routine use can be advocated. The overall aim is to reduce the incidence of incorrect diagnosis of the fetal head position prior to instrumental delivery and improve the safety of instrumental deliveries.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN72230496
Respiratory viral infections in children with asthma: do they matter and can we prevent them?
Authors: Ahanchian Hamid , Jones Carmen M , Chen Yueh-sheng , Sly Peter D
Published: September 2012

Background

Asthma is a major public health problem with a huge social and economic burden affecting 300 million people worldwide. Viral respiratory infections are the major cause of acute asthma exacerbations and may contribute to asthma inception in high risk young children with susceptible genetic background. Acute exacerbations are associated with decreased lung growth or accelerated loss of lung function and, as such, add substantially to both the cost and morbidity associated with asthma.

Discussion

While the importance of preventing viral infection is well established, preventive strategies have not been well explored. Good personal hygiene, hand-washing and avoidance of cigarette smoke are likely to reduce respiratory viral infections. Eating a healthy balanced diet, active probiotic supplements and bacterial-derived products, such as OM-85, may reduce recurrent infections in susceptible children. There are no practical anti-viral therapies currently available that are suitable for widespread use.

Hand hygiene is the best measure to prevent the common cold. A healthy balanced diet, active probiotic supplements and immunostimulant OM-85 may reduce recurrent infections in asthmatic children.
Language barrier and its relationship to diabetes and diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Zheng Yingfeng , Lamoureux Ecosse L , Chiang Pei-Chia Peggy , Anuar Ainur Rahman , Ding Jie , Wang Jie Jin , Mitchell Paul , Tai E-Shyong , Wong Tien Y
Published: September 2012

Background

Language barrier is an important determinant of health care access and health. We examined the associations of English proficiency with type-2 diabetes (T2DM) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) in Asian Indians living in Singapore, an urban city where English is the predominant language of communication.

Methods

This was a population-based, cross-sectional study. T2DM was defined as HbA1c ≥6.5%, use of diabetic medication or a physician diagnosis of diabetes. Retinal photographs were graded for the severity of DR including vision-threatening DR (VTDR). Presenting visual impairment (VI) was defined as LogMAR visual acuity > 0.30 in the better-seeing eye. English proficiency at the time of interview was assessed.

Results

The analyses included 2,289 (72.1%) English-speaking and 885 (27.9%) Tamil- speaking Indians. Tamil-speaking Indians had significantly higher prevalence of T2DM (46.2 vs. 34.7%, p < 0.001) and, among those with diabetes, higher prevalence of DR (36.0 vs. 30.6%, p < 0.001), VTDR (11.0 vs. 6.5%, p < 0.001), and VI (32.4 vs. 14.6%) than English speaking Indians. Oaxaca decomposition analyses showed that the language-related discrepancies (defined as the difference in prevalence between persons speaking different languages) in T2DM, DR, and VTDR could not be fully explained by socioeconomic measures.

Conclusions

In an English dominant society, Tamil-speaking Indians are more likely to have T2DM and diabetic retinopathy. Social policies and health interventions that address language-related health disparities may help reduce the public health impact of T2DM in societies with heterogeneous populations.
Optimizing the HRP-2 in vitro malaria drug susceptibility assay using a reference clone to improve comparisons of Plasmodium falciparum field isolates
Authors: Rutvisuttinunt Wiriya , Chaorattanakawee Suwanna , Tyner Stuart D , Teja-isavadharm Paktiya , Se Youry , Yingyuen Kritsanai , Chaichana Panjaporn , Bethell Delia , Walsh Douglas S , Lon Chanthap , Fukuda Mark , Socheat Duong , Noedl Harald , Schaecher Kurt , Saunders David L
Published: September 2012

Background

Apparent emerging artemisinin-resistant Plasmodium falciparum malaria in Southeast Asia requires development of practical tools to monitor for resistant parasites. Although in vitro anti-malarial susceptibility tests are widely used, uncertainties remain regarding interpretation of P. falciparum field isolate values.

Methods

Performance parameters of the W2 P. falciparum clone (considered artemisinin “sensitive”) were evaluated as a reference for the HRP-2 immediate ex vivo assay. Variability in W2 IC50s was assessed, including intra- and inter-assay variability among and between technicians in multiple experiments, over five freeze-thaw cycles, over five months of continuous culture, and before and after transport of drug-coated plates to remote field sites. Nominal drug plate concentrations of artesunate (AS) and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) were verified by LC-MS analysis. Plasmodium falciparum field isolate IC50s for DHA from subjects in an artemisinin-resistant area in Cambodia were compared with W2 susceptibility.

Results

Plate drug concentrations and day-to-day technical assay performance among technicians were important sources of variability for W2 IC50s within and between assays. Freeze-thaw cycles, long-term continuous culture, and transport to and from remote sites had less influence. Despite variability in W2 susceptibility, the median IC50s for DHA for Cambodian field isolates were higher (p <0.0001) than the W2 clone (3.9 nM), both for subjects with expected (less than 72 hours; 6.3 nM) and prolonged (greater or equal to 72 hours; 9.6 nM) parasite clearance times during treatment with artesunate monotherapy.

Conclusion

The W2 reference clone improved the interpretability of field isolate susceptibility from the immediate ex vivo HRP-2 assay from areas of artemisinin resistance. Methods to increase the reproducibility of plate coating may improve overall assay interpretability and utility.
Assessment of desiccants and their instructions for use in rapid diagnostic tests
Authors: Barbé Barbara , Gillet Philippe , Beelaert Greet , Fransen Katrien , Jacobs Jan
Published: September 2012

Background

Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) are protected from humidity-caused degradation by a desiccant added to the device packaging. The present study assessed malaria RDT products for the availability, type and design of desiccants and their information supplied in the instructions for use (IFU).

Methods

Criteria were based on recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Community (CE) and own observations. Silica gel sachets were defined as self-indicating (all beads coated with a humidity indicator that changes colour upon saturation), partial-indicating (part of beads coated) and non-indicating (none of the beads coated). Indicating silica gel sachets were individually assessed for humidity saturation and (in case of partial-indicating silica gels) for the presence of indicating beads.

Results

Fifty malaria RDT products from 25 manufacturers were assessed, 14 (28%) products were listed by the “Global Fund Quality Assurance Policy” and 31 (62%) were CE-marked. All but one product contained a desiccant, mostly (47/50, 94%) silica gel. Twenty (40%) RDT products (one with no desiccant and 19 with non-indicating desiccant) did not meet the WHO guidelines recommending indicating desiccant. All RDT products with self- or partial-indicating silica gel (n = 22 and 8 respectively) contained the toxic cobalt dichloride as humidity indicator. Colour change indicating humidity saturation was observed for 8/16 RDT products, at a median incidence of 0.8% (range 0.05%-4.6%) of sachets inspected. In all RDTs with partial-indicating silica gel, sachets with no colour indicating beads were found (median proportion 13.5% (0.6% - 17.8%) per product) and additional light was needed to assess the humidity colour. Less than half (14/30, 47%) IFUs of RDT products with indicating desiccants mentioned to check the humidity saturation before using the test. Information on properties, safety hazards and disposal of the desiccant was not included in any of the IFUs. There were no differences between Global Fund-listed and CE marked RDT products compared to those which were not. Similar findings were noted for a panel of 11 HIV RDTs that was assessed with the same checklist as the malaria RDTs.

Conclusion

RDTs showed shortcomings in desiccant type and information supplied in the IFU.
Prevalence and genotypic relatedness of carbapenem resistance among multidrug-resistant P. aeruginosa in tertiary hospitals across Thailand
Authors: Khuntayaporn Piyatip , Montakantikul Preecha , Mootsikapun Piroon , Thamlikitkul Visanu , Chomnawang Mullika Traidej
Published: September 2012

Background

Increased infection caused by multidrug resistant (MDR) Pseudomonas aeruginosa has raised awareness of the resistance situation worldwide. Carbapenem resistance among MDR (CR-MDR) P. aeruginosa has become a serious life-threatening problem due to the limited therapeutic options. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence, the antibiotic susceptibility patterns and the relatedness of CR-MDR P. aeruginosa in tertiary hospitals across Thailand.

Methods

MDR P. aeruginosa from eight tertiary hospitals across Thailand were collected from 2007–2009. Susceptibility of P. aeruginosa clinical isolates was determined according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guideline. Selected CR-MDR P. aeruginosa isolates were genetically analyzed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis.

Results

About 261 clinical isolates were identified as MDR P. aeruginosa and approximately 71.65% were found to be CR-MDR P. aeruginosa. The result showed that the meropenem resistance rate was the highest reaching over 50% in every hospitals. Additionally, the type of hospitals was a major factor affecting the resistance rate, as demonstrated by significantly higher CR-MDR rates among university and regional hospitals. The fingerprinting map identified 107 clones with at least 95% similarity. Only 4 clones were detected in more than one hospital.

Conclusions

Although the antibiotic resistance rate was high, the spreading of CR-MDR was found locally. Specific strains of CR-MDR did not commonly spread from one hospital to another. Importantly, clonal dissemination ratio indicated limited intra-hospital transmission in Thailand.
Mapping heatwave health risk at the community level for public health action
Authors: Buscail Camille , Upegui Erika , Viel Jean-François
Published: September 2012

Background

Climate change poses unprecedented challenges, ranging from global and local policy challenges to personal and social action. Heat-related deaths are largely preventable, but interventions for the most vulnerable populations need improvement. Therefore, the prior identification of high risk areas at the community level is required to better inform planning and prevention. We aimed to demonstrate a simple and flexible conceptual framework relying upon satellite thermal data and other digital data with the goal of easily reproducing this framework in a variety of urban configurations.

Results

The study area encompasses Rennes, a medium-sized French city. A Landsat ETM + image (60 m resolution) acquired during a localized heatwave (June 2001) was used to estimate land surface temperature (LST) and derive a hazard index. A land-use regression model was performed to predict the LST. Vulnerability was assessed through census data describing four dimensions (socio-economic status, extreme age, population density and building obsolescence). Then, hazard and vulnerability indices were combined to deliver a heatwave health risk index. The LST patterns were quite heterogeneous, reflecting the land cover mosaic inside the city boundary, with hotspots of elevated temperature mainly observed in the city center. A spatial error regression model was highly predictive of the spatial variation in the LST (R

2
 = 0.87) and was parsimonious. Three land cover descriptors (NDVI, vegetation and water fractions) were negatively linked with the LST. A sensitivity analysis (based on an image acquired on July 2000) yielded similar results. Southern areas exhibited the most vulnerability, although some pockets of higher vulnerability were observed northeast and west of the city. The heatwave health risk map showed evidence of infra-city spatial clustering, with the highest risks observed in a north–south central band. Another sensitivity analysis gave a very high correlation between 2000 and 2001 risk indices (r = 0.98, p < 10-12).

Conclusions

Building on previous work, we developed a reproducible method that can provide guidance for local planners in developing more efficient climate impact adaptations. We recommend, however, using the health risk index together with hazard and vulnerability indices to implement tailored programs because exposure to heat and vulnerability do not require the same prevention strategies.
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells reduce systemic inflammation and attenuate LPS-induced acute lung injury in rats
Authors: Li Jianjun , Li Dong , Liu Xiaomei , Tang Shuhai , Wei Fengcai
Published: September 2012

Background

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) possess potent immunomodulatory properties and simultaneously lack the ability to illicit immune responses. Hence, MSCs have emerged as a promising candidate for cellular therapeutics for inflammatory diseases. Within the context of this study, we investigated whether human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) could ameliorate lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced acute lung injury (ALI) in a rat model.

Methods

ALI was induced via injection of LPS. Rats were divided into three groups: (1) saline group(control), (2) LPS group, and (3) MSC + LPS group. The rats were sacrificed at 6, 24, and 48 hours after injection. Serum, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and lungs were collected for cytokine concentration measurements, assessment of lung injury, and histology.

Results

UC-MSCs increased survival rate and suppressed LPS-induced increase of serum concentrations of pro-inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 without decreasing the level of anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The MSC + LPS group exhibited significant improvements in lung inflammation, injury, edema, lung wet/dry ratio, protein concentration, and neutrophil counts in the BALF, as well as improved myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in the lung tissue. Furthermore, UC-MSCs decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) production and increased Heme Oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein production and activity in the lung tissue.

Conclusion

UC-MSCs noticeably increased the survival rate of rats suffering from LPS-induced lung injury and significantly reduced systemic and pulmonary inflammation. Promoting anti-inflammatory homeostasis and reducing oxidative stress might be the therapeutic basis of UC-MSCs.
Dentist education and labour market in Mexico: elements for policy definition
Authors: González-Robledo Luz María , González-Robledo María Cecilia , Nigenda Gustavo
Published: September 2012

Background

Here, the educational and labour market characteristics of Mexican dentists are revised. Dentistry is a health profession that has been scarcely studied in developing countries. This analysis attempts to understand the relationships and gaps between the supply and demand of dentists in the country. Around 5000 new dentists graduate every year looking for a place in the labour market.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with exploratory, descriptive and correlational scope was carried out between 2006 and 2008. Analyses of quantitative data on dentists from national surveys and occupational statistics were complemented with qualitative information provided by 43 key informants in five Mexican states.

Results

The 2008 dentist labour market can be characterized as follows: 75% worked in the private sector, most of them independently; more than two-thirds were women; the proportion of specialists was low (slightly more than 10%); unemployment was more than 20% and labour wastage was nearly 40%, with most wastage corresponding with female dentists. The increase in the number of dentists entering the labour market during the last two decades is more related to the educational market than to the population’s health needs and the number of dentists actually required to meet them.

Conclusions

The problems identified in the Mexican dentist labour market necessitate urgent intervention on behalf of regulatory bodies in order to balance the tendencies of supply and demand in the number of trained professionals as well as in their incorporation into different market areas. Adequate policies are required to increase the likelihood of achieving this objective.
Lack of detection of host associated differences in Newcastle disease viruses of genotype VIId isolated from chickens and geese
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Duan Zhiqiang , Hu Shunlin , Kai Yan , Wang Xiaobo , Song Qingqing , Zhong Lei , Sun Qing , Wang Xiaoquan , Wu Yantao , Liu Xiufan
Published: September 2012

Background

The goose is usually considered to be resistant even to strains of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) that are markedly virulent for chickens. However, ND outbreaks have been frequently reported in goose flocks in China since the late 1990s with the concurrent emergence of genotype VIId NDV in chickens. Although the NDVs isolated from both chickens and geese in the past 15 years have been predominantly VIId viruses, published data comparing goose- and chicken-originated ND viruses are scarce and controversial.

Results

In this paper, we compared genotype VIId NDVs originated from geese and chickens genetically and pathologically. Ten entire genomic sequences and 329 complete coding sequences of individual genes from genotype VIId NDVs of both goose- and chicken-origin were analyzed. We then randomly selected two goose-originated and two chicken-originated VIId NDVs and compared their pathobiology in both geese and chickens in vivo and in vitro with genotype IV virus Herts/33 as a reference. The results showed that all the VIId NDVs either from geese or from chickens shared high sequence homology and characteristic amino acid substitutions and clustered together in phylogenetic trees. In addition, geese and chickens infected by goose or chicken VIId viruses manifested very similar pathological features distinct from those of birds infected with Herts/33.

Conclusions

There is no genetic or phenotypic difference between genotype VIId NDVs originated from geese and chickens. Therefore, no species-preference exists for either goose or chicken viruses and more attention should be paid to the trans-species transmission of VIId NDVs between geese and chickens for the control and eradication of ND.
A method to quantify infection and colonization of holm oak (Quercus ilex) roots by Phytophthora cinnamomi
Authors: Ruiz-Gómez Francisco J , Sánchez-Cuesta Rafael , Navarro-Cerrillo Rafael M , Pérez-de-Luque Alejandro
Published: September 2012

Phytophthora cinnamomi Rands. is an important root rot pathogen widely distributed in the north hemisphere, with a large host range. Among others diseases, it is known to be a principal factor in the decline of holm oak and cork oak, the most important tree species in the “dehesa” ecosystem of south-western Spain. Previously, the focus of studies on P. cinnamomi and holm oak have been on molecular tools for identification, functional responses of the host, together with other physiological and morphological host variables. However, a microscopic index to describe the degree of infection and colonization in the plant tissues has not yet been developed. A colonization or infection index would be a useful tool for studies that examine differences between individuals subjected to different treatments or to individuals belonging to different breeding accessions, together with their specific responses to the pathogen. This work presents a methodology based on the capture and digital treatment of microscopic images, using simple and accessible software, together with a range of variables that quantify the infection and colonization process.
Radiation dose ≥54 Gy and CA 19–9 response are associated with improved survival for unresectable, non-metastatic pancreatic cancer treated with chemoradiation
Authors: Golden Daniel W , Novak Caroline J , Minsky Bruce D , Liauw Stanley L
Published: September 2012

Background

Unresectable pancreatic cancer (UPC) has low survival. With improving staging techniques and systemic therapy, local control in patients without metastatic disease may have increasing importance. We investigated whether the radiation dose used in chemoradiation (CRT) as definitive treatment for UPC and the CA 19–9 response to therapy have an impact on overall survival (OS).

Methods

From 1997–2009 46 patients were treated with CRT for non-metastatic UPC. Median prescribed RT dose was 54 Gy (range 50.4-59.4 Gy). All patients received concurrent chemotherapy (41: 5-fluorouracil, 5: other) and 24 received adjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

41 patients were inoperable due to T4 disease and 5 patients with T3 disease were medically inoperable. Five patients did not complete CRT due to progressive disease or treatment-related toxicity (median RT dose 43.2 Gy). Overall, 42 patients were dead of disease at the time of last follow-up. The median and 12 month OS were 8.8 months and 35%, respectively. By univariate analysis, minimum CA 19–9 post-CRT <90 U/mL was favorably associated with OS (12.3 versus 8.8 months, p = 0.012). Radiotherapy dose ≥54 Gy trended towards improved OS (11.3 versus 6.8 months, p = 0.089). By multivariable analysis, a delivered RT dose of ≥54 Gy (HR 0.47, p = 0.028) and minimum CA 19–9 post-CRT of <90 U/mL (HR 0.35, p = 0.008) were associated with OS.

Conclusions

CRT as definitive treatment for UPC had low survival. However, our retrospective data suggest that patients treated to ≥54 Gy or observed to have a minimum post-CRT CA 19–9 <90 U/mL had improved likelihood of long-term survival.
46,XX ovotesticular disorder in a Mexican patient with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome: a case report
Authors: Macías-Gómez Nelly Margarita , Leal-Ugarte Evelia , Gutiérrez-Angulo Melva , Domínguez-Quezada Guadalupe , Rivera Horacio , Barros-Núñez Patricio
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome is an overgrowth syndrome that is characterized by hypoglycemia at birth, coarse face, hemihypertrophy and an increased risk to develop embryonal tumors. In approximately 15% of patients, the inheritance is autosomal dominant with variable expressivity and incomplete penetrance, whereas the remainder of Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome cases are sporadic. Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome molecular etiologies are complex and involve the two imprinting centers 1 (IC1) and 2 (IC2) of 11p15 region. This case report describes, for the first time, the unusual association of ovotesticular disorder in a patient from Morelia, Mexico with Wiedemann-Beckwith syndrome.

Case presentation

We report the case of a Mexican six-year-old girl with Beckwith–Wiedemann Syndrome, ambiguous genitalia, and bilateral ovotestes. She has a 46,XX karyotype without evidence of Y-chromosome sequences detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization with both SRY and wcp-Y probes.

Conclusion

Although a random association between these two conditions cannot be excluded, future analysis of this patient with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome and 46,XX ovotesticular disorder may lead to new insights into these complex pathologies. We speculate that a possible misregulation in the imprinted genes network has a fundamental role in the coexistence of these two disorders.