bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient improvements in fixational stability in strabismic amblyopes following bifoveal fixation and reduced interocular suppression
Authors: Raveendran Rajkumar Nallour , Babu Raiju J. , Hess Robert F. , Bobier William R.
Published: February 2014

Purpose

To test the hypothesis that fixational stability of the amblyopic eye in strabismics will improve when viewing provides both bifoveal fixation and reduced inter‐ocular suppression by reducing the contrast to the fellow eye.

Methods

Seven strabismic amblyopes (Age: 29.2 ± 9 years; five esotropes and two exotropes) showing clinical characteristics of central suppression were recruited. Interocular suppression was measured by a global motion task. For each participant, a balance point was determined which defined contrast levels for each eye where binocular combination was optimal (interocular suppression minimal). When the balance point could not be determined, this participant was excluded. Bifoveal fixation was established by ocular alignment using a haploscope. Participants dichoptically viewed similar targets (a cross of 2.3° surrounded by a square of 11.3°) at 40 cm. Target contrasts presented to each eye were either high contrast (100% to both eyes) or balanced contrast (attenuated contrast in the fellow fixing eye). Fixation stability was measured over a 5 min period and quantified using bivariate contour ellipse areas in four different binocular conditions; unaligned/high contrast, unaligned/balance point, aligned/high contrast and aligned/balance point. Fixation stability was also measured in six control subjects (Age: 25.3 ± 4 years).

Results

Bifoveal fixation in the strabismics was transient (58.15 ± 15.7 s). Accordingly, fixational stability was analysed over the first 30 s using repeated measures anova. Post hoc analysis revealed that for the amblyopic subjects, the fixational stability of the amblyopic eye was significantly improved in aligned/high contrast (p = 0.01) and aligned/balance point (p < 0.01) conditions. Fixational stability of the fellow fixing eye was not different statistically across conditions. Bivariate contour ellipse areas of the amblyopic and fellow fixing eyes were therefore averaged for each amblyope in the four conditions and compared with normals. This averaged bivariate contour ellipse area was significantly greater (reduced fixational stability, p = 0.04) in amblyopes compared to controls except in the case of aligned and balanced contrast (aligned/balance point, p = 0.19).

Conclusion

Fixation stability in the amblyopic eye appears to improve with bifoveal fixation and reduced interocular suppression. However, once initiated, bifoveal fixation is transient with the strabismic eye drifting away from foveal alignment, thereby increasing the angle of strabismus.
Instability of KCNE1‐D85N that Causes Long QT Syndrome: Stabilization by Verapamil
Authors: SAKATA SHINJI , KURATA YASUTAKA , LI PEILI , NOTSU TOMOMI , MORIKAWA KUMI , MIAKE JUNICHIRO , HIGAKI KATSUMI , YAMAMOTO YASUTAKA , YOSHIDA AKIO , SHIRAYOSHI YASUAKI , YAMAMOTO KAZUHIRO , HORIE MINORU , NINOMIYA HARUAKI , KANZAKI SUSUMU , HISATOME ICHIRO
Published: February 2014

Background

A KCNE1 polymorphism, D85N, causes long QT syndrome (LQTS) with a decrease in the slowly activating delayed‐rectifier K+ channel current (IKs). We examined impacts of D85N polymorphism on KCNE1 protein stability and functions, and tested the ability of various drugs to modify them.

Methods

KCNE1‐D85N or the wild‐type protein was coexpressed in COS7 cells with KCNQ1 to form K+ channels. Expression, degradation, and intracellular localization of KCNE1 proteins, as well as the currents conferred by KCNQ1/KCNE1 complexes, were determined using immunoblots, immunofluorescence, and patch‐clamp techniques.

Results

The protein level of KCNE1‐D85N was lower than that of the wild‐type, in spite of the comparable levels of their mRNA. KCNE1‐D85N was highly ubiquitinated and rapidly degraded as compared to the wild‐type; a proteasome inhibitor, MG132, inhibited its degradation and increased its steady‐state level. Both KCNE1‐D85N and the wild‐type proteins were co‐immunoprecipitated with KCNQ1. Immunofluorescent signals of KCNE1‐D85N accumulated in the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, with reduced levels on the cell membrane. Patch‐clamp experiments demonstrated that the membrane current corresponding to IKs was much smaller in cells expressing KCNE1‐D85N than in those expressing the wild‐type. Verapamil (0.5–10 μM) increased the protein level of KCNE1‐D85N, decreased its ubiquitination, slowed its degradation, and enhanced KCNQ1/KCNE1‐D85N channel currents. Pretreatment with amiodarone abolished these effects of verapamil.

Conclusion

KCNE1‐D85N is less stable than the wild‐type protein, and is rapidly degraded through the ubiquitin‐proteasome system. Verapamil may be of a therapeutic value in LQTS patients via preventing degradation of KCNE1‐D85N.
Experience of and in Time
Authors: Phillips Ian
Published: February 2014

How must experience of time be structured in time? In particular, does the following principle, which I will call inheritance, hold: for any temporal property apparently presented in perceptual experience, experience itself has that same temporal property. For instance, if I hear Paul McCartney singing ‘Hey Jude’, must my auditory experience of the ‘Hey’ itself precede my auditory experience of the ‘Jude’, or can the temporal order of these experiences come apart from the order the words are experienced as having? A number of recent authors (Phillips Experience and Time, ‘The Temporal Structure of Experience’, Soteriou ‘Perceiving Events’, Hoerl ‘“A Succession of Feelings, in and of Itself, is Not a Feeling of Succession”’, Rashbrook) claim, to paraphrase Martin (399), that inheritance best characterises how our temporal experience seems to initial reflective intuition. For this reason, Phillips takes the principle to form part of our naïve view of temporal experience. An opposing group of theorists object that inheritance is subject to empirical counter‐example. This article surveys such challenges. Section 2 considers Grush's case against inheritance based on postdiction. Section 3 examines Watzl's anti‐inheritance argument based on silencing effects. Finally, Section 4 explores a number of alleged counter‐examples proposed by Lee (‘Temporal Experience and the Temporal Structure of Experience’). Section 1 provides essential background to the debate.
Bolzano and the Analytical Tradition
Authors: Lapointe Sandra
Published: February 2014

In the course of the last few decades, Bolzano has emerged as an important player in accounts of the history of philosophy. This should be no surprise. Few authors stand at a more central junction in the development of modern thought. Bolzano's contributions to logic and the theory of knowledge alone straddle three of the most important philosophical traditions of the 19th and 20th centuries: the Kantian school, the early phenomenological movement and what has come to be known as analytical philosophy. This paper identifies three Bolzanian theoretical innovations that warrant his inclusion in the analytical tradition: the commitment to ‘logical realism’, the adoption of a substitutional procedure for the purpose of defining logical properties and a new theory of a priori cognition that presents itself as an alternative to Kant's. All three innovations concur to deliver what counts as the most important development of logic and its philosophy between Aristotle and Frege. In the final part of the paper, I defend Bolzano against a common objection and explain that these theoretical innovations are also supported by views on syntax, which though marginal are both workable and philosophically interesting. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Occupational UV Exposure of Environmental Agents in Valencia, Spain
Authors: Serrano María‐Antonia , Cañada Javier , Moreno Juan Carlos , Gurrea Gonzalo ,   Members of the Valencia Solar Radiation Research Group
Published: February 2014

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is considered the most important environmental risk factor in the development of melanoma and skin cancer. Outdoor workers are among those with the highest risk from exposure to solar UVR, as their daily activities constantly expose them to this radiation source. A study was carried out in Valencia, Spain, in summer 2012 and involved a group of 11 workers for a period of six 2‐day recordings. Sensitive spore‐film filter‐type personal dosimeters (VioSpor) were used to measure erythemal UVR received by environmental agents in the course of their daily work. Median 2‐day UV exposure was 6.2 standard erythema dose (SED), with 1 SED defined as effective 100 J m−2 when weighted with the Commission Internationale de L′Eclairage's (CIE) erythemal response function. These workers were found to receive a median of 8.3% total daily ambient ultraviolet erythemal radiation. Comparison with the occupational UV exposure limit showed that the subjects had received an erythemal UV dose in excess of occupational guidelines, indicating that protective measures against this risk are highly advisable.
Christian–Buddhist Polemics in Late Medieval/Early Modern Japan
Authors: Baskind James
Published: February 2014

Until recently, there have been predominantly two ways of approaching Christian–Buddhist polemics during Japan's late medieval and early modern periods. One way is to look at the writings of European Jesuits. The other way is to look at the Buddhist response, largely seen in works produced by Zen monks. Until recently, we had yet to see an informed Japanese understanding of Christianity, nor an insider's critical treatment of Japanese Buddhism. In the person of Fukansai Habian, however, we see both of these things. Not only was he a convert to Christianity, but he was also a former Zen monk. We will examine his catechistic text, Myōtei Mondō (1605), and its recently discovered first fascicle on Buddhism as a nexus for considering Christianity's polemical challenge to Buddhism. We will see how the meeting of radically different worldviews regarding such fundamental issues as salvation, the afterlife, ethics, the ‘soul’, and the nature of Ultimate Reality/God came to a climax in the person of Habian and found its most thorough and informed exposition in Myōtei Mondō. Within this discussion, we will also address the Buddhist response to the charge that it is based on emptiness, nothingness, and void.
Social Capital, Network Effects, and Savings in Rural Vietnam
Authors: Newman Carol , Tarp Finn , Van Den Broeck Katleen
Published: February 2014

Information failures are a major barrier to formal financial saving in low‐income countries. We explore the extent to which social capital in rural Vietnam plays a role in increasing formal savings where knowledge gaps exist. Social capital is defined as information sharing and the elimination of information asymmetries through active participation in the Women's Union. We consider high‐ and low‐quality networks in terms of the quality of information transmitted. We find that membership of high‐quality networks leads to higher levels of saving in formal financial institutions and saving for productive investments. Our results support a role for social capital in facilitating savings and suggest that transmitting financial information through the branches of the Women's Union could be effective in increasing formal savings at grassroots level. We also conclude that it is important to ensure that the information disseminated is accurate given that behavioral effects are also found in networks with low‐quality information.
Poverty, Vulnerability, and Reference‐Dependent Utility
Authors: Günther Isabel , Maier Johannes K.
Published: February 2014

The numerous proposed measures of multi‐period poverty and vulnerability have until now not taken into account the insights from behavioral economics. In this paper we argue that recent evidence on individuals' decision making is of high relevance for the measurement of poverty when switching from a static and certain to a dynamic and uncertain framework. Building on reference‐dependent utility we propose new measures of both (perceived) multi‐period poverty and vulnerability, where the poverty status of an individual is a function not only of (expected) consumption levels but also of (expected) losses and gains in consumption. We demonstrate the implications of the proposed measures with a small illustrative example.
Income Inequality, Redistribution, and Poverty: Contrasting Rational Choice and Behavioral Perspectives
Authors: Luebker Malte
Published: February 2014

Based on the standard axiom of individual utility maximization, rational choice has postulated that higher income inequality translates into greater redistribution by shaping the median voter's preferences. While numerous papers have tested this proposition, the literature has remained divided over the appropriate measure for redistribution. Revisiting the original contribution by Meltzer and Richard in 1981, the present paper argues that the median voter hypothesis implies that relative redistribution should increase in line with inequality. However, an empirical test based on 110 observations from the Luxembourg Income Study (LIS) finds no support for the hypothesis. By contrast, voters' actual preferences offer a better guide to understanding redistributive outcomes. The findings challenge the narrow concept of human motivation that underpins rational choice, and point to the importance of fairness orientations that have been emphasized in behavioral economics.
Estimating the Burden of Pertussis in Mexican Adolescents from Paired Serological Data by Using a Bivariate Mixture Model
Authors: Follmann Dean , Qin Jing , Lourdes Guerrero M. , Gabrielle Breugelmans J. , Rosales Pedraza Gustave , Gessner Bradford D. , Ruiz-Palacios Guillermo M.
Published: February 2014

In recent decades there has been an increase in the reported incidence of clinical pertussis in many countries. Estimation of the true circulation of the bacterium Bordetella pertussis is most reliably made on the basis of studies that measure antibody concentrations against pertussis toxin. Antibody levels decay over time and provide a fading memory of the infection. We develop a discrete bivariate mixture model for paired antibody levels in a cohort of 1002 Mexican adolescents who were followed over the 2008–2009 school year. This model postulates three groups of children based on past pertussis infection; never, prior and new. On the basis of this model we directly estimate incidence and prevalence, and select a diagnostic cut-off for classifying children as recently infected. We also discuss a relatively simple approach that uses only ‘discordant’ children who test positively on one visit and negatively on the other. The discordant approach provides inferences that are very similar to those of the full model when the data follow the assumed full model. Additionally, the discordant method is much more robust to model misspecification than the full model which has substantial problems with optimization. We estimate the school year incidence of pertussis to be about 3% and the prevalence to be about 8%. A cut-off of 50 was estimated to have about 99.5% specificity and 68% sensitvity.
Applying a palliative care approach in residential care: effects on nurse assistants' experiences of care provision and caring climate
Authors: Beck Ingela , Jakobsson Ulf , Edberg Anna‐Karin
Published: February 2014

Background

A palliative care approach aims to integrate psychosocial and existential as well as relationship aspects in the care and is an approach that can be used in residential care. Nurse assistants are the ones who are closest to the residents but have limited prerequisites for working in accordance with the palliative care approach. We aimed to investigate the effects on nurse assistants' experiences of care provision and the caring climate of an intervention applying a palliative care approach in residential care.

Methods

An intervention involving nurse assistants (n = 75) and their leaders (n = 9), in comparison with controls (n = 110), was evaluated using a questionnaire at three points in time.

Results

In the intervention group, positive effects were seen concerning the nurse assistants' reports of the care provision in that they focused more on the residents' stories about their lives and on communicating with the residents about what gave meaning to their lives. Also, negative effects were seen when the nurse assistants rated that the residents' needs for medical and nursing care had not been met at the facility directly after the intervention. No effects were seen concerning the caring climate or the prerequisites of providing more person‐centred care.

Conclusion

The intervention seemed to have encouraged the nurse assistants to focus on relationship aspects with the residents. So as not to jeopardise the NAs' well‐being and to support NAs in keeping themselves involved in existential issues, their support most certainly needs to be continuous and ongoing. However, in spite of the leaders' involvement, the intervention was not sufficient for changing the organisational prerequisites for more person‐centred care.
Social Relationships and Health: The Toxic Effects of Perceived Social Isolation
Authors: Cacioppo John T. , Cacioppo Stephanie
Published: February 2014

Research in social epidemiology suggests that the absence of positive social relationships is a significant risk factor for broad‐based morbidity and mortality. The nature of these social relationships and the mechanisms underlying this association are of increasing interest as the population gets older and the health care costs associated with chronic disease escalate in industrialized countries. We review selected evidence on the nature of social relationships and focus on one particular facet of the connection continuum – the extent to which an individual feels isolated (i.e., feels lonely) in a social world. Evidence indicates that loneliness heightens sensitivity to social threats and motivates the renewal of social connections, but it can also impair executive functioning, sleep, and mental and physical well‐being. Together, these effects contribute to higher rates of morbidity and mortality in lonely older adults.
Effectiveness of artesunate–amodiaquine vs. artemether–lumefantrine for the treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Nanoro, Burkina Faso: a non‐inferiority randomised trial
Authors: Tinto Halidou , Diallo Salou , Zongo Issaka , Guiraud Issa , Valea Innocent , Kazienga Adama , Kpoda Hervé , Sorgho Hermann , Ouédraogo Jean‐Bosco , Guiguemdé Tinga Robert , D'Alessandro Umberto
Published: February 2014

Objectives

Artemisinin‐based combination therapies (ACTs) are essential for the effective control of falciparum malaria in endemic countries. However, in most countries, such choice has been carried out without knowing their effectiveness when deployed in real‐life conditions, that is, when treatment is not directly observed. We report here the results of a study assessing the effectiveness of the two ACTs currently recommended in Burkina Faso for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria, that is, artemether–lumefantrine (AL) and artesunate–amodiaquine (ASAQ).

Methods

Between September 2008 and January 2010, 340 children were randomised to one of the two study arms and followed up for 42 days. Treatment was administered according to routine practices, that is, the first dose was given by study nurses who explained to the parent/guardian how to administer the other doses at home during the following 2 days.

Results

The results showed a significantly higher unadjusted adequate clinical and parasitological response in the ASAQ (58.4%) than in the AL arm (46.1%) at day 28 but these trends were similar after correction with PCR data (ASAQ (89.7%) and AL (89.8%)). New infections started to appear after day 14, first in the AL and then in the ASAQ arm but at day 42 day of follow‐up we observed no difference in the occurrence of recrudescent infection.

Conclusion

Despite a lower cure rate than those reported in efficacy studies in which the treatment administration was directly observed, both AL and ASAQ can still be used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria in Burkina Faso.
Medical management of miscarriage
Authors: Saraswat Lucky , Ashok Premila W , Mathur Manisha
Published: February 2014

Key content

Miscarriage is a common event in women of reproductive age, with an incidence of 10–20%.

Traditionally, surgical evacuation of the uterus was the gold standard for the management of miscarriage.

Medical management of miscarriage using a suitable prostaglandin analogue is a safe and effective alternative with high efficacy and patient acceptability.

Medical management can be routinely offered as an alternative option, thereby increasing women's choice.

Learning objectives

To understand the indications, efficacy and adverse effects of medical treatment.

To learn about the various treatment regimens of medical management for different types of miscarriage at varying gestations.

To understand the need for analgesia and psychological support during treatment.

Ethical issues

Prescribing misoprostol for unlicensed indication: where do we stand?

Can medical management be offered to women where geographical barriers exist?

Given the analgesia requirement and psychological sequelae associated with pregnancy loss, is medical management at home a feasible option?
The Cellular and Physiological Functions of the Lowe Syndrome Protein OCRL1
Authors: Mehta Zenobia B. , Pietka Grzegorz , Lowe Martin
Published: February 2014

Phosphoinositide lipids play a key role in cellular physiology, participating in a wide array of cellular processes. Consequently, mutation of phosphoinositide‐metabolizing enzymes is responsible for a growing number of diseases in humans. Two related disorders, oculocerebrorenal syndrome of Lowe (OCRL) and Dent‐2 disease, are caused by mutation of the inositol 5‐phosphatase OCRL1. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of OCRL1 function. OCRL1 appears to regulate many processes within the cell, most of which depend upon coordination of membrane dynamics with remodeling of the actin cytoskeleton. Recently developed animal models have managed to recapitulate features of Lowe syndrome and Dent‐2 disease, and revealed new insights into the underlying mechanisms of these disorders. The continued use of both cell‐based approaches and animal models will be key to fully unraveling OCRL1 function, how its loss leads to disease and, importantly, the development of therapeutics to treat patients.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Salmonella in the Beef Chain in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Khen B. K. , Lynch O. A. , Carroll J. , McDowell D. A. , Duffy G.
Published: February 2014

The study investigated the prevalence, concentration and characteristics of Salmonella spp. in the Irish beef chain. A total of 900 samples including bovine hides, carcasses and ground beef were examined for the pathogen over a 2‐year study (July 2007–June 2009). Salmonella prevalence was low in all sample types; bovine hide (0.75%, 3 of 400); carcasses (0.25%, 1 of 400); and ground beef (3%, 3 of 100). All positive samples contained the pathogen in low concentrations (<10 CFU per cm2 or per g). Serovars recovered were S. Dublin from hide and carcasses and S. Braenderup in ground beef. All isolates were susceptible to 13 anti‐microbials. The study highlights that Salmonella can be found at low levels at all stages of beef chain production, processing and retail and that there is a need for multiple hurdle interventions and practices along the beef chain, which will reduce consumer exposure to this pathogen.
Theoretical and practical approach to overcome curvature radius limitation of conductive atomic force microscopy tip for imaging of advanced technological node static random access memory devices
Authors: Ng Tsu Hau , James Sabitha , Dawood Mohammed Khalid Bin , Tan Hao , Huang Yamin , Limin Pariyarathu Salimon , Tan Pik Kee , Lam Jeffrey Chor Keung , Mai Zhihong
Published: February 2014

This paper demonstrates a methodology to overcome the challenges in obtaining a distinguishable current image when the radius of curvature of the conductive atomic force microscopy (C-AFM) tip is larger than the feature size of the device under test, e.g., the individual tungsten contacts of a static random access memory (SRAM) device. A model is presented to understand the interaction between the C-AFM tip and the features on the surface of a SRAM sample. Based on this model, recessed depth (tungsten recessed to neighboring dielectric) or protruding height (protruding tungsten with respect to the dielectric) is then created on the sample surface to provide suitable topographical contrast so that the electrical signals from the smaller tungsten contacts could be better discerned. It has been calculated that the surface treated dimensions need to fall within a feasible range in order to obtain a well-resolved current image. In the case where a recessed depth is created, the depth cannot be too deep as the edge of the neighboring insulating dielectric would block the base of the C-AFM tip and prevent the tip from accessing the lower-residing tungsten contact. The lack of good contact between the tip and receding tungsten contact would result in the inability to extract the electrical signals from the tungsten contact. In the case where protruding tungsten is created, a height limit exists whereby the conductive-AFM tip would unintentionally touch the neighboring tungsten contacts, creating a false illusion that the tungsten contacts are shorted together. The proposed model is generic and is able to serve as a guide to achieve a good current image. The required dimension could be easily calculated by inserting the known specifications into the model. Following the theoretical understanding, the recessed depth and protruding height are then physically created on the sample surface for enhanced C-AFM imaging. The experimental results agree well with the theoretical predictions from the model. This technique is then applied on actual failure analysis/fault isolation of SRAM devices.
Semiempirical method of suppressing interference effects in photoluminescence spectra of GaN heterostructures
Authors: Wang Yu-Li , Chen Kuan-Yu , Yang Wei-Chen , Chiu Shao-Yen , Cheng Keh-Yung
Published: February 2014

Interference fringes are generally found in the photoluminescence (PL) spectrum of heterostructures with large refractive index differences between layers and with a smooth interface. To eliminate the interference effects in an air/GaN/InGaN/GaN/Al2O3 structure, the measured interference fringe wavelengths of the PL spectrum are used to deduce the frequency dependent interference function of the system. This interference function is then used to numerically remove interference fringes from the as-measured PL spectrum. This versatile semiempirical method allows the derivation of the true PL spectrum from the measured data, including angular dependent spectra, without complicated calculations or additional measurements.
Effect of electron focusing in x-ray sources using LiTaO3 crystals excited by neodymium-doped yttrium lithium fluoride laser light
Authors: Nakahama Kosuke , Takahashi Michiaki , Abo Satoshi , Wakaya Fujio , Takai Mikio
Published: February 2014

The intensity of x-rays from a 15 mm-diameter metal target bombarded by electrons emitted from a LiTaO3 crystal is found to depend upon the distance, h, between the crystal and the target. The electron emission of the LiTaO3 crystal is generated by being excited with light from a neodymium-doped yttrium lithium fluoride laser. The x-ray intensity is highest for h = 6 mm, coinciding also with a minimum electron spot size. The coincidence of the minimum electron spot size and maximum x-ray intensity with the 15 mm-diameter target is a result of self-focusing of the electrons by the higher electric field at the edge of the cylindrical crystal. The maximum electron energy at h = 6 mm with 120 s of laser irradiation is 47 keV, which is estimated from the maximum energy of bremsstrahlung x-rays.
Effects of oxide thickness and temperature on dispersions in InGaAs MOS C-V characteristics
Authors: Chen Han-Ping , Ahn Jaesoo , McIntyre Paul C. , Taur Yuan
Published: February 2014

The apparent dependence of trap induced dispersion on oxide thickness in the InGaAs metal–oxide–semiconductor C-V data is explained by a thickness independent trap density. The model shows that for the same trap density, the normalized C-V dispersion due to border traps increases toward thinner oxides, whereas that due to interface states behaves oppositely, exactly as observed in the data. For the temperature effect, the dispersion in C-V from interface states diminishes at low temperatures, while that from oxide traps changes little to none. Those trends are shown to be driven by a temperature dependent trap time constant, not trap density.
Acute Physical Exercise Affected Processing Efficiency in an Auditory Attention Task More Than Processing Effectiveness
Authors: Dutke Stephan , Jaitner Thomas , Berse Timo , Barenberg Jonathan
Published: February 2014

Research on effects of acute physical exercise on performance in a concurrent cognitive task has generated equivocal evidence. Processing efficiency theory predicts that concurrent physical exercise can increase resource requirements for sustaining cognitive performance even when the level of performance is unaffected. This hypothesis was tested in a dual-task experiment. Sixty young adults worked on a primary auditory attention task and a secondary interval production task while cycling on a bicycle ergometer. Physical load (cycling) and cognitive load of the primary task were manipulated. Neither physical nor cognitive load affected primary task performance, but both factors interacted on secondary task performance. Sustaining primary task performance under increased physical and/or cognitive load increased resource consumption as indicated by decreased secondary task performance. Results demonstrated that physical exercise effects on cognition might be underestimated when only single task performance is the focus.
Molecular Network Analysis of Endometriosis Reveals a Role for c-Jun–Regulated Macrophage Activation
Authors: Beste Michael T. , Pfäffle-Doyle Nicole , Prentice Emily A. , Morris Stephanie N. , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Isaacson Keith B. , Griffith Linda G.
Published: February 2014

The molecular correlates of heterogeneous endometriosis symptoms support a role for innate inflammatory responses converging upon c-Jun and NFκB signaling cascades.
Diabetes, DNA Methylation, and in Utero Environment
Authors: Bytautiene Egle
Published: February 2014

Exposure to a diabetic in utero environment alters the methylation of genes associated with diabetes and Notch signaling in Pima Indian subjects.
How Much Do Drugs Matter?
Authors: Sheth Anandi N.
Published: February 2014

Drugs penetrate poorly into the lymphatic tissues, which are sites of persistent HIV replication.
PREDICTing the Era of Personalized Medicine
Authors: Voora Deepak
Published: February 2014

Most patients may benefit from preemptive pharmacogenetic testing.
Phosphoregulation of Nap1 Plays a Role in Septin Ring Dynamics and Morphogenesis in Candida albicans
Authors: Huang Zhen-Xing , Zhao Pan , Zeng Gui-Sheng , Wang Yan-Ming , Sudbery Ian , Wang Yue
Published: February 2014

Nap1 has long been identified as a potential septin regulator in yeasts. However, its function and regulation remain poorly defined. Here, we report functional characterization of Nap1 in the human-pathogenic fungus
Candida albicans
. We find that deletion of
NAP1
causes constitutive filamentous growth and changes of septin dynamics. We present evidence that Nap1’s cellular localization and function are regulated by phosphorylation. Phos-tag gel electrophoresis revealed that Nap1 phosphorylation is cell cycle dependent, exhibiting the lowest level around the time of bud emergence. Mass spectrometry identified 10 phosphoserine and phosphothreonine residues in a cluster near the N terminus, and mutation of these residues affected Nap1’s localization to the septin ring and cellular function. Nap1 phosphorylation involves two septin ring-associated kinases, Cla4 and Gin4, and its dephosphorylation occurs at the septin ring in a manner dependent on the phosphatases PP2A and Cdc14. Furthermore, the
nap1Δ/Δ
mutant and alleles carrying mutations of the phosphorylation sites exhibited greatly reduced virulence in a mouse model of systemic candidiasis. Together, our findings not only provide new mechanistic insights into Nap1’s function and regulation but also suggest the potential to target Nap1 in future therapeutic design.

IMPORTANCE
Septins are conserved filament-forming GTPases involved in a wide range of cellular events, such as cytokinesis, exocytosis, and morphogenesis. In
Candida albicans
, the most prevalent human fungal pathogen, septin functions are indispensable for its virulence. However, the molecular mechanisms by which septin structures are regulated are poorly understood. In this study, we deleted
NAP1
, a gene encoding a putative septin regulator, in
C. albicans
and found that cells lacking
NAP1
showed abnormalities in morphology, invasive growth, and septin ring dynamics. We identified a conserved N-terminal phosphorylation cluster on Nap1 and demonstrated that phosphorylation at these sites regulates Nap1 localization and function. Importantly, deletion of
NAP1
or mutation in the N-terminal phosphorylation cluster strongly reduced the virulence of
C. albicans
in a mouse model of systemic infection. Thus, this study not only provides mechanistic insights into septin regulation but also suggests Nap1 as a potential antifungal target.
A Targeted RNA Interference Screen Reveals Novel Epigenetic Factors That Regulate Herpesviral Gene Expression
Authors: Oh Hyung Suk , Bryant Kevin F. , Nieland Thomas J. F. , Mazumder Aprotim , Bagul Mukta , Bathe Mark , Root David E. , Knipe David M.
Published: February 2014

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) utilizes and subverts host chromatin mechanisms to express its lytic gene products in mammalian cells. The host cell attempts to silence the incoming viral genome by epigenetic mechanisms, but the viral VP16 and ICP0 proteins promote active chromatin on the viral genome by recruiting other host epigenetic factors. However, the dependence on VP16 and ICP0 differs in different cell lines, implying cell type-dependent functional contributions of epigenetic factors for HSV gene expression. In this study, we performed a targeted RNA interference (RNAi) screen for cellular chromatin factors that are involved in regulation of herpes simplex virus (HSV) gene expression in U2OS osteosarcoma cells, a cell line that complements
ICP0
mutant and
VP16
mutant virus replication. In this screen, we found the same general classes of chromatin factors that regulate HSV gene expression in U2OS cells as in other cell types, including histone demethylases (HDMs), histone deacetylases (HDACs), histone acetyltransferases (HATs), and chromatin-remodeling factors, but the specific factors within these classes are different from those identified previously for other cell types. For example, KDM3A and KDM1A (LSD1) both demethylate mono- and dimethylated H3K9, but KDM3A emerged in our screen of U2OS cells. Further, small interfering RNA (siRNA) and inhibitor studies support the idea that KDM1A is more critical in HeLa cells, as observed previously, while KDM3A is more critical in U2OS cells. These results argue that different cellular chromatin factors are critical in different cell lines to carry out the positive and negative epigenetic effects exerted on the HSV genome.

IMPORTANCE
Upon entry into the host cell nucleus, the herpes simplex virus genome is subjected to host epigenetic silencing mechanisms. Viral proteins recruit cellular epigenetic activator proteins to reverse and counter the cellular silencing mechanisms. Some of the host silencing and activator functions involved in HSV gene expression have been identified, but there have been indications that the host cell factors may vary in different cell types. In this study, we performed a screen of chromatin factors involved in HSV gene regulation in osteosarcoma cells, and we found that the chromatin factors that are critical for HSV gene expression in these cells are different from those for previously studied cell types. These results argue that the specific chromatin factors operative in different cell lines and cell types may differ. This has implications for epigenetic drugs that are under development.
Use of antibiotics for urinary tract infection in women undergoing surgery for urinary incontinence: a cohort study
Authors: Guldberg Rikke , Kesmodel Ulrik Schiøler , Brostrøm Søren , Kærlev Linda , Hansen Jesper Kjær , Hallas Jesper , Nørgård Bente Mertz
Published: February 2014

Objective

To describe the use of antibiotics for urinary tract infection (UTI) before and after surgery for urinary incontinence (UI); and for those with use of antibiotics before surgery, to estimate the risk of treatment for a postoperative UTI, relative to those without use of antibiotics before surgery.

Design

A historical population-based cohort study.

Setting

Denmark.

Participants

Women (age ≥18 years) with a primary surgical procedure for UI from the county of Funen and the Region of Southern Denmark from 1996 throughout 2010. Data on redeemed prescriptions of antibiotics ±365 days from the date of surgery were extracted from a prescription database.

Main outcome measures

Use of antibiotics for UTI in relation to UI surgery, and the risk of being a postoperative user of antibiotics for UTI among preoperative users.

Results

A total of 2151 women had a primary surgical procedure for UI; of these 496 (23.1%) were preoperative users of antibiotics for UTI. Among preoperative users, 129 (26%) and 215 (43.3%) also redeemed prescriptions of antibiotics for UTI within 0–60 and 61–365 days after surgery, respectively. Among preoperative non-users, 182 (11.0%) and 235 (14.2%) redeemed prescriptions within 0–60 and 61–365 days after surgery, respectively. Presurgery exposure to antibiotics for UTI was a strong risk factor for postoperative treatment for UTI, both within 0–60 days (adjusted OR, aOR=2.6 (95% CI 2.0 to 3.5)) and within 61–365 days (aOR=4.5 (95% CI 3.5 to 5.7)).

Conclusions

1 in 4 women undergoing surgery for UI was treated for UTI before surgery, and half of them had a continuing tendency to UTIs after surgery. Use of antibiotics for UTI before surgery was a strong risk factor for antibiotic use after surgery. In women not using antibiotics for UTI before surgery only a minor proportion initiated use after surgery.
Cross-sectional study of HPV-16 infection in a population-based subsample of Hispanic adults
Authors: Ortiz A P , Unger E R , Muñoz C , Panicker G , Tortolero-Luna G , Soto-Salgado M , Otero Y , Suárez E , Pérez C M
Published: February 2014

Objective

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and correlates of seropositivity to human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 in a subsample of adults who participated in the parent studyEpidemiology of Hepatitis C in the adult population of Puerto Rico (PR).

Setting

The parent study was a population-based household survey aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of hepatitis C and other viral infections (hepatitis A, hepatitis B, HIV, and herpes simplex type 2) in PR (n=1654) between 2005 and 2008.

Participants

A subsample of the last 450 consecutive adults aged 21–64 years, recruited between February 2007 and January 2008, who participated in the parent study and agreed to participate in HPV testing.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The samples were tested by ELISA for HPV-16 viral-like particle-specific immunoglobulin G. Information on sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle characteristics was collected. Logistic regression modelling was used to estimate the prevalence odds ratio (POR) to assess factors associated to HPV-16 seropositivity.

Results

Prevalence of seropositivity to HPV-16 was 11.3%. Seroprevalence was higher in women (15.8%) than men (5.6%; p=0.001). After adjusting for age and sex, ever smokers (POR 2.06, 95% CI 1.08 to 3.92) and participants with at least five lifetime sexual partners (POR 2.91, 95% CI 1.24 to 6.81) were more likely to be HPV-16 seropositive.

Conclusions

HPV-16 seropositivity is similar to that reported in the USA (10.4%) for NHANES 2003–2004 participants, although different assays were used in these studies. While future studies should evaluate HPV seroprevalence using a larger population-based sample, our results highlight the need to further understand the burden of HPV infection and HPV-related malignancies in PR, population with a low vaccine uptake.
Delirium awareness - Improving recognition and management through education and use of a care pathway
Authors: TAURO RUBEN
Published: February 2014

Delirium occurs in 10-20% of medical patients on admission and a further 10-30% develop delirium as an inpatient. Delirium is associated with increased length of stay, morbidity, mortality, and risk of institutional placement. There is poor knowledge of delirium recognition and management, and a need to raise awareness and training of all staff. NICE have produced guidelines for diagnosis, prevention and management of delirium.

A retrospective departmental audit demonstrated that delirium was under-recognised i.e. only 5.7% of discharges in one year. A staff questionnaire revealed poor knowledge of types of delirium and a significant underestimation of prevalence, with poor identification of risk factors. A multi-professional group was formed to raise staff awareness and develop a care pathway for delirium. A 19 bed acute elderly care ward was identified for the project.

Ward based and departmental educational meetings were held. A Trust based awareness programme was also provided. Information leaflets on delirium were produced for patients, carers and families and posters at ward level. Environmental changes (signage) at ward level were introduced to improve the environment for patients. A delirium care pathway was created to encourage documentation of mental score, assessment of delirium, review of reversible medical causes and a nursing care plan. This pathway was reviewed regularly on ward rounds and feedback given to staff present.

Following these interventions the notes of 106 consecutive discharges were reviewed over an 11-week period. 99% of at risk patients were screened for delirium. 35% of patients were diagnosed with delirium increasing the recognition rate from 5.7%. There was significant improvement among the staff in recognizing and managing patients with delirium through the use of a delirium care pathway. Education improves understanding and awareness of delirium and a care pathway focuses attention on this area, improving patient safety and quality of care.
A field study of the morphometric response of Typha glauca shoots to a water depth gradient
Authors: Waters I. , Shay J. M.
Published: February 2014

In the Delta Marsh, Manitoba, the hybrid cattail Typha glauca Godr. forms large monodominant stands over a wide range of water depths (25–100 cm). Despite a considerable body of research concerning the origin and development of this important species, its ecology has received little attention. In field studies conducted in two freshwater wetland sites in the Delta Marsh, mean height and biomass of vegetative shoots of T. glauca increased significantly along a gradient of increasing water depth. Product–moment correlations between height and biomass were [Formula: see text]. Flowering shoots, in contrast, were less flexible in their response to depth. No significant differences associated with depth were found in reproductive biomass, height, spike width, spike length, or gap length of flowering spikes harvested in August. Differences in size of vegetative shoots were interpreted as a plastic response that may play a role in adaptation to a range of water depths. By adjusting the length of underwater shoot tissue, the ramet maintains relatively constant aerial shoot dimensions. Growth of shoots in deep water is enhanced by an intrinsic factor (juvenility) and an environmental factor (edge effect). Key words: Typha glauca, water depth, growth, plasticity, field study, morphometric response.
Involvement of the Golgi apparatus in crystalloid protein deposition in Ricinus communis cv. Hale seeds
Authors: Brown M. J. , Greenwood J. S.
Published: February 2014

The developing endosperm of castor bean has been used extensively as a model system for studies of storage-protein synthesis and processing, yet the path of transport of the storage proteins to the protein bodies has not been elucidated. In this study, immunolocalization of the 11S globulin (crystalloid protein) was performed on sections of acrolein–glutaraldehydefixed, resin-embedded, developing castor bean endosperm. Acrolein allowed rapid fixation of the tissue necessary for preserving the ultrastructure of the endomembrane system while maintaining adequate antigenicity of the target protein. Crystalloid protein was localized in the rough endoplasmic reticulum, the known site of synthesis, and in the dense proteinaceous inclusions within the protein bodies. In addition, significant labelling of Golgi complexes and associated vesicles, 65-nm diameter coated vesicles, and larger 220-nm diameter cytoplasmic vesicles was obtained. The findings provide the first direct evidence that the storage parenchyma cells of developing castor bean endosperm possess well-developed, functional Golgi complexes. This is consistent with previous observations of seed storage proteins in other plant species. The study further suggests that two distinct classes of vesicles are involved in the transport of the 11S globulin to the protein bodies. Key words: Golgi, immunolocalization, protein body, Ricinus communis, storage protein, transport (protein).
Fates of ethanol produced during flooding of sunflower roots
Authors: Jayasekera G. A. U. , Reid D. M. , Yeung E. C.
Published: February 2014

Hypoxic flooding of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L. cv. Delgren 131) roots caused rapid promotion of ethanol synthesis. Some of the root-synthesized ethanol was retained while a major portion was leaked into the flooding medium. A portion of the root ethanol was transported to shoots via transpirational stream, where some of it was vented out to the air around the leaves. Sunflower roots and shoots have the capacity to utilize ethanol retained by incorporating the carbon from ethanol into lipids, amino and organic acids, and sugars. Removal of ethanol from tissues by leaking, by venting, and by metabolic reutilization may be useful mechanisms that sunflowers use to avoid ethanol accumulation. Shoots of flooded sunflower plants, which are of course important as sources of oxygen and carbohydrates for roots, also act as a sink for root ethanol. More ethanol metabolism may be taking place in shoots than in roots. Prolonged flooding stress caused a rapid and steady increase in ADH activity in roots, but ethanol levels showed a decline after an initial rise. ADH in flooded roots may be useful in the regeneration of NAD, thus ensuring continuation of glycolysis.
Key and synopsis of North American Hordeum species
Authors: Baum Bernard R. , Bailey L. Grant
Published: February 2014

A key to the species of Hordeum in North America is provided. Accompanying the key to Hordeum are accounts of species with the correct name, pertinent synonyms, common names, citations of major works, and notes on taxonomy, habitats, distribution, and variation. Photographs of inflorescences and illustrations of triads of spikelets are provided to facilitate identification. Key words: Hordeum, key to species, North America.