bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inner solar system material discovered in the Oort cloud
Authors: Meech Karen J. , Yang Bin , Kleyna Jan , Hainaut Olivier R. , Berdyugina Svetlana , Keane Jacqueline V. , Micheli Marco , Morbidelli Alessandro , Wainscoat Richard J.
Published: April 2016

Fresh inner solar system material preserved in the Oort cloud may hold the key to understanding our solar system formation.
Reduced evolutionary rate in reemerged Ebola virus transmission chains
Authors: Blackley David J. , Wiley Michael R. , Ladner Jason T. , Fallah Mosoka , Lo Terrence , Gilbert Merle L. , Gregory Christopher , D’ambrozio Jonathan , Coulter Stewart , Mate Suzanne , Balogun Zephaniah , Kugelman Jeffrey , Nwachukwu William , Prieto Karla , Yeiah Adolphus , Amegashie Fred , Kearney Brian , Wisniewski Meagan , Saindon John , Schroth Gary , Fakoli Lawrence , Diclaro Joseph W. , Kuhn Jens H. , Hensley Lisa E. , Jahrling Peter B. , Ströher Ute , Nichol Stuart T. , Massaquoi Moses , Kateh Francis , Clement Peter , Gasasira Alex , Bolay Fatorma , Monroe Stephan S. , Rambaut Andrew , Sanchez-Lockhart Mariano , Scott Laney A. , Nyenswah Tolbert , Christie Athalia , Palacios Gustavo
Published: April 2016

Surveillance of Ebola virus disease flare-ups uncovers a reduced rate of Ebola virus evolution during persistent infections.
Direct Nitrous Oxide Emission from the Aquacultured Pacific White Shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Heisterkamp Ines M. , Schramm Andreas , de Beer Dirk , Stief Peter
Published: April 2016

The Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is widely used in aquaculture, where it is reared at high stocking densities, temperatures, and nutrient concentrations. Here we report that adultL. vannameishrimp emit the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) at an average rate of 4.3 nmol N2O/individual × h, which is 1 to 2 orders of magnitude higher than previously measured N2O emission rates for free-living aquatic invertebrates. Dissection, incubation, and inhibitor experiments with specimens from a shrimp farm in Germany indicated that N2O is mainly produced in the animal's gut by microbial denitrification. Microsensor measurements demonstrated that the gut interior is anoxic and nearly neutral and thus is favorable for denitrification by ingested bacteria. Dinitrogen (N2) and N2O accounted for 64% and 36%, respectively, of the nitrogen gas flux from the gut, suggesting that the gut passage is too fast for complete denitrification to be fully established. Indeed, shifting the rearing water bacterial community, a diet component of shrimp, from oxic to anoxic conditions induced N2O accumulation that outlasted the gut passage time. Shrimp-associated N2O production was estimated to account for 6.5% of total N2O production in the shrimp farm studied here and to contribute to the very high N2O supersaturation measured in the rearing tanks (2,099%). Microbial N2O production directly associated with aquacultured animals should be implemented into life cycle assessments of seafood production.

IMPORTANCEThe most widely used shrimp species in global aquaculture,Litopenaeus vannamei, is shown to emit the potent greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) at a particularly high rate. Detailed experiments reveal that N2O is produced in the oxygen-depleted gut of the animal by bacteria that are part of the shrimp diet. Upon ingestion, these bacteria experience a shift from oxic to anoxic conditions and therefore switch their metabolism to the anaerobic denitrification process, which produces N2O as an intermediate and dinitrogen (N2) gas as an end product. The N2O/N2production ratio is unusually high in the shrimp gut, because denitrification cannot be fully established during the short gut passage time of food-associated bacteria. Nitrous oxide emission directly mediated byL. vannameicontributes significantly to the overall N2O emission from aquaculture facilities.
Blue-Light Inhibition of Listeria monocytogenes Growth Is Mediated by Reactive Oxygen Species and Is Influenced by σ
B
and the Blue-Light Sensor Lmo0799
Authors: O'Donoghue Beth , NicAogáin Kerrie , Bennett Claire , Conneely Alan , Tiensuu Teresa , Johansson Jörgen , O'Byrne Conor
Published: April 2016

Listeria monocytogenes
senses blue light via the flavin mononucleotide-containing sensory protein Lmo0799, leading to activation of the general stress response sigma factor SigB (σ
B
). In this study, we investigated the physiological response of this foodborne pathogen to blue light. We show that blue light (460 to 470 nm) doses of 1.5 to 2 mW cm
−2
cause inhibition of growth on agar-based and liquid culture media. The inhibitory effects are dependent on cell density, with reduced effects evident when high cell numbers are present. The addition of 20 mM dimethylthiourea, a scavenger of reactive oxygen species, or catalase to the medium reverses the inhibitory effects of blue light, suggesting that growth inhibition is mediated by the formation of reactive oxygen species. A mutant strain lacking σ
B
(Δ
sigB
) was found to be less inhibited by blue light than the wild type, likely indicating the energetic cost of deploying the general stress response. When a lethal dose of light (8 mW cm
−2
) was applied to cells, the Δ
sigB
mutant displayed a marked increase in sensitivity to light compared to the wild type. To investigate the role of the blue-light sensor Lmo0799, mutants were constructed that either had a deletion of the gene (Δ
lmo0799
) or alteration in a conserved cysteine residue at position 56, which is predicted to play a pivotal role in the photocycle of the protein (
lmo0799
C56A). Both mutants displayed phenotypes similar to the Δ
sigB
mutant in the presence of blue light, providing genetic evidence that residue 56 is critical for light sensing in
L. monocytogenes
. Taken together, these results demonstrate that
L. monocytogenes
is inhibited by blue light in a manner that depends on reactive oxygen species, and they demonstrate clear light-dependent phenotypes associated with σ
B
and the blue-light sensor Lmo0799.

IMPORTANCE
Listeria monocytogenes
is a bacterial foodborne pathogen that can cause life-threatening infections in humans. It is known to be able to sense and respond to visible light. In this study, we examine the effects of blue light on the growth and survival of this pathogen. We show that growth can be inhibited at comparatively low doses of blue light, and that at higher doses,
L. monocytogenes
cells are killed. We present evidence suggesting that blue light inhibits this organism by causing the production of reactive oxygen species, such as hydrogen peroxide. We help clarify the mechanism of light sensing by constructing a “blind” version of the blue-light sensor protein. Finally, we show that activation of the general stress response by light has a negative effect on growth, probably because cellular resources are diverted into protective mechanisms rather than growth.
Antibacterial Activity of Blue Light against Nosocomial Wound Pathogens Growing Planktonically and as Mature Biofilms
Authors: Halstead Fenella D. , Thwaite Joanne E. , Burt Rebecca , Laws Thomas R. , Raguse Marina , Moeller Ralf , Webber Mark A. , Oppenheim Beryl A.
Published: April 2016

The blue wavelengths within the visible light spectrum are intrinisically antimicrobial and can photodynamically inactivate the cells of a wide spectrum of bacteria (Gram positive and negative) and fungi. Furthermore, blue light is equally effective against both drug-sensitive and -resistant members of target species and is less detrimental to mammalian cells than is UV radiation. Blue light is currently used for treating acnes vulgaris andHelicobacter pyloriinfections; the utility for decontamination and treatment of wound infections is in its infancy. Furthermore, limited studies have been performed on bacterial biofilms, the key growth mode of bacteria involved in clinical infections. Here we report the findings of a multicenterin vitrostudy performed to assess the antimicrobial activity of 400-nm blue light against bacteria in both planktonic and biofilm growth modes. Blue light was tested against a panel of 34 bacterial isolates (clinical and type strains) comprisingAcinetobacter baumannii,Enterobacter cloacae,Stenotrophomonas maltophilia,Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Escherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus,Enterococcus faecium,Klebsiella pneumoniae, andElizabethkingia meningoseptica. All planktonic-phase bacteria were susceptible to blue light treatment, with the majority (71%) demonstrating a ≥5-log10decrease in viability after 15 to 30 min of exposure (54 J/cm2to 108 J/cm2). Bacterial biofilms were also highly susceptible to blue light, with significant reduction in seeding observed for all isolates at all levels of exposure. These results warrant further investigation of blue light as a novel decontamination strategy for the nosocomial environment, as well as additional wider decontamination applications.

IMPORTANCEBlue light shows great promise as a novel decontamination strategy for the nosocomial environment, as well as additional wider decontamination applications (e.g., wound closure during surgery). This warrants further investigation.
Development of an Avirulent Salmonella Surrogate for Modeling Pathogen Behavior in Pre- and Postharvest Environments
Authors: de Moraes Marcos H. , Chapin Travis K. , Ginn Amber , Wright Anita C. , Parker Kenneth , Hoffman Carol , Pascual David W. , Danyluk Michelle D. , Teplitski Max
Published: April 2016

Recurrent outbreaks of bacterial gastroenteritis linked to the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables highlight the paucity of understanding of the ecology of
Salmonella enterica
under crop production and postharvest conditions. These gaps in knowledge are due, at least in part, to the lack of suitable surrogate organisms for studies for which biosafety level 2 is problematic. Therefore, we constructed and validated an avirulent strain of
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium. The strain lacks major
Salmonella
pathogenicity islands SPI-1, SPI-2, SPI-3, SPI-4, and SPI-5 as well as the virulence plasmid pSLT. Deletions and the absence of genomic rearrangements were confirmed by genomic sequencing, and the surrogate behaved like the parental wild-type strain on selective media. A loss-of-function (
phoN
) selective marker allowed the differentiation of this strain from wild-type strains on a medium containing a chromogenic substrate for alkaline phosphatase. Lack of virulence was confirmed by oral infection of female BALB/c mice. The strain persisted in tomatoes, cantaloupes, leafy greens, and soil with the same kinetics as the parental wild-type and selected outbreak strains, and it reached similar final population levels. The responses of this strain to heat treatment and disinfectants were similar to those of the wild type, supporting its potential as a surrogate for future studies on the ecology and survival of
Salmonella
in production and processing environments.

IMPORTANCE
There is significant interest in understanding the ecology of human pathogens in environments outside of their animal hosts, including the crop production environment. However, manipulative field experiments with virulent human pathogens are unlikely to receive regulatory approval due to the obvious risks. Therefore, we constructed an avirulent strain of
S. enterica
serovar Typhimurium and characterized it extensively.
Distinct Mineral Weathering Behaviors of the Novel Mineral-Weathering Strains Rhizobium yantingense H66 and Rhizobium etli CFN42
Authors: Chen Wei , Luo Long , He Lin-Yan , Wang Qi , Sheng Xia-Fang
Published: April 2016

Bacteria play important roles in mineral weathering, soil formation, and element cycling. However, little is known about the interaction between silicate minerals and rhizobia. In this study,
Rhizobium yantingense
H66 (a novel mineral-weathering rhizobium) and
Rhizobium etli
CFN42 were compared with respect to potash feldspar weathering, mineral surface adsorption, and metabolic activity during the mineral weathering process. Strain H66 showed significantly higher Si, Al, and K mobilization from the mineral and higher ratios of cell numbers on the mineral surface to total cell numbers than strain CFN42. Although the two strains produced gluconic acid, strain H66 also produced acetic, malic, and succinic acids during mineral weathering in low- and high-glucose media. Notably, higher Si, Al, and K releases, higher ratios of cell numbers on the mineral surface to total cell numbers, and a higher production of organic acids by strain H66 were observed in the low-glucose medium than in the high-glucose medium. Scanning electron microscope analyses of the mineral surfaces and redundancy analysis showed stronger positive correlations between the mineral surface cell adsorption and mineral weathering, indicated by the dissolved Al and K concentrations. The results showed that the two rhizobia behaved differently with respect to mineral weathering. The results suggested that
Rhizobium yantingense
H66 promoted potash feldspar weathering through increased adsorption of cells to the mineral surface and through differences in glucose metabolism at low and high nutrient concentrations, especially at low nutrient concentrations.

IMPORTANCE
This study reported the potash feldspar weathering, the cell adsorption capacity of the mineral surfaces, and the metabolic differences between the novel mineral-weathering
Rhizobium yantingense
H66 and
Rhizobium etli
CFN42 under different nutritional conditions. The results showed that
Rhizobium yantingense
H66 had a greater ability to weather the mineral in low- and high-glucose media, especially in the low-glucose medium. Furthermore,
Rhizobium yantingense
H66 promoted mineral weathering through the increased adsorption of cells to the mineral surface and through increased organic acid production. Our results allow us to better comprehend the roles of different rhizobia in silicate mineral weathering, element cycling, and soil formation in various soil environments, providing more insight into the geomicrobial contributions of rhizobia to these processes.
Heat Stress Modulates Mycelium Growth, Heat Shock Protein Expression, Ganoderic Acid Biosynthesis, and Hyphal Branching of Ganoderma lucidum via Cytosolic Ca
2+
Authors: Zhang Xue , Ren Ang , Li Meng-Jiao , Cao Peng-Fei , Chen Tian-Xi , Zhang Guang , Shi Liang , Jiang Ai-Liang , Zhao Ming-Wen
Published: April 2016

Heat stress (HS) influences the growth and development of organisms. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of how organisms sense HS and respond to it is required.
Ganoderma lucidum
, a higher basidiomycete with bioactive secondary metabolites, has become a potential model system due to the complete sequencing of its genome, transgenic systems, and reliable reverse genetic tools. In this study, we found that HS inhibited mycelium growth, reduced hyphal branching, and induced the accumulation of ganoderic acid biosynthesis and heat shock proteins (HSPs) in
G. lucidum
. Our data showed that HS induced a significant increase in cytosolic Ca
2+
concentration. Further evidence showed that Ca
2+
might be a factor in the HS-mediated regulation of hyphal branching, ganoderic acid (GA) biosynthesis, and the accumulation of HSPs. Our results further showed that the calcium-permeable channel gene (
cch
)-silenced and phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase gene (
plc
)-silenced strains reduced the HS-induced increase in HSP expression compared with that observed for the wild type (WT). This study demonstrates that cytosolic Ca
2+
participates in heat shock signal transduction and regulates downstream events in filamentous fungi.

IMPORTANCE
Ganoderma lucidum
, a higher basidiomycete with bioactive secondary metabolites, has become a potential model system for evaluating how environmental factors regulate the development and secondary metabolism of basidiomycetes. Heat stress (HS) is an important environmental challenge. In this study, we found that HS inhibited mycelium growth, reduced hyphal branching, and induced HSP expression and ganoderic acid biosynthesis in
G. lucidum
. Further evidence showed that Ca
2+
might be a factor in the HS-mediated regulation of hyphal branching, GA biosynthesis, and the accumulation of HSPs. This study demonstrates that cytosolic Ca
2+
participates in heat shock signal transduction and regulates downstream events in filamentous fungi. Our research offers a new way to understand the mechanism underlying the physiological and metabolic responses to other environmental factors in
G. lucidum
. This research may also provide the basis for heat shock signal transduction studies of other fungi.
‘FIFA 11 for Health’ for Europe. II: effect on health markers and physical fitness in Danish schoolchildren aged 10–12 years
Authors: Ørntoft Christina , Fuller Colin W , Larsen Malte Nejst , Bangsbo Jens , Dvorak Jiri , Krustrup Peter
Published: April 2016

Objectives

To evaluate whether a modified ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ programme for non-communicable diseases had effects on body composition, blood pressure and physical fitness of Danish schoolchildren aged 10–12 years.

Design

A cluster-randomised controlled study with 7 intervention and 2 control schools.

Participants

546 Danish 5th grade municipal schoolchildren allocated to an intervention group (IG; n=402: 11.1±0.4 (±SD) years, 150.1±7.0 cm, 41.3±8.4 kg) and a control group (CG; n=144: 11.0±0.5 years, 151.2±7.8 cm, 41.3±9.0 kg).

Intervention

As part of the physical education (PE) curriculum, IG carried out 2 weekly 45 min ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ sessions focusing on health issues, football skills and 3v3 games. CG continued regular school PE activities. Measurements of body composition, blood pressure at rest, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery level 1 children's test (YYIR1C), balance, jump and sprint performance were performed before and after the 11-week study period.

Results

During the 11-week study period, systolic blood pressure (−3.5 vs 0.9 mm Hg), mean arterial blood pressure (−1.9 vs 0.4 mm Hg), body mass index (−0.02 vs 0.13 kg/m2) and body fat percentage (−0.83% vs −0.04%) decreased more (p<0.05) in IG than in CG. Within-group improvements (p<0.05) were observed in IG for 20 m sprint (4.09±0.29 to 4.06±0.28 s) and YYIR1C performance (852±464 to 896±517 m), but these changes were not significantly different from CG, and balance or jump performance remained unchanged in both groups.

Conclusions

The modified ‘FIFA 11 for Health’ programme has beneficial effects on body composition and blood pressure for Danish schoolchildren aged 10–12 years, thereby providing evidence that this football-based health education programme can directly impact participants' cardiovascular health profile.
Blood glucose self-monitoring and internet diabetes management on A1C outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Chow Nelson , Shearer Daniel , Aydin Plaa Jessica , Pottinger Betty , Pawlowska Monika , White Adam , Tildesley Hugh D
Published: April 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to determine any correlation between frequency of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), frequency of patient-provider communication of SMBG (reporting), and hemoglobin A1C for patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes solely on oral medications.

Research design and methods

191 charts of patients with type 2 diabetes treated solely with oral hypoglycemic agents were reviewed retrospectively. A1C, SMBG frequency, and frequency of online communication with an endocrinologist within the most recent 6-month period were used in the analyses. Regression analysis was used to determine correlations to A1C. For subsequent subgroup analysis, patients were separated into infrequent and frequent SMBG groups, defined as those who test on average once or less per day or twice or more per day.

Results

Although testing frequency did not correlate with A1C, higher reporting frequency correlated with lower A1C. Subgroup analysis of the frequent SMBG group showed a significantly lower A1C in frequent reporters when compared to infrequent reporters (N=118, p<0.05). This trend was not observed in the infrequent SMBG group (N=73, p=0.161).

Conclusions

The inverse correlation between reporting frequency and A1C, as well as the significant difference in A1C only for the frequent testers, suggests that frequent SMBG has an effect on reducing A1C only when combined with regular, frequent communication of SMBG with a healthcare provider.
Improving performance in the detection and management of cystic fibrosis-related diabetes in the Mountain West Cystic Fibrosis Consortium
Authors: Liou Theodore G , Jensen Judith L , Allen Sarah E , Brayshaw Sara J , Brown Mark A , Chatfield Barbara , Koenig Joni , McDonald Catherine , Packer Kristyn A , Peet Kimberly , Radford Peggy , Reineke Linda M , Otsuka Kim , Wagener Jeffrey S , Young David , Marshall Bruce C
Published: April 2016

Objective

Cystic fibrosis (CF)-related diabetes (CFRD) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Improved detection and management may improve outcomes; however, actual practice falls short of published guidelines. We studied efforts to improve CFRD screening and management in the Mountain West CF Consortium (MWCFC).

Research design and methods

This is a prospective observational cohort study evaluating quality improvement by accredited CF centers in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah performed between 2002 and 2008. After Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, centers evaluated adherence with CF Foundation guidelines for CFRD. Each center developed and implemented quality improvement plans to improve both screening and management. Centers were reassessed 1 year later.

Results

Initially, each CF center had low adherence with screening recommendations (26.5% of eligible patients) that did not improve during the study. However, patients with confirmed CFRD markedly increased (141 (12% of MWCFC patients) to 224 (17%), p<0.001), and with improved adherence to management guidelines, patients with CFRD had increased weight (56.8–58.9 kg, p<0.001), body mass index (21.1–21.4, p=0.003), and weight-for-age z-score (−1.42 to –0.84, p<0.001). Quality improvement methods were specific to the practice settings of each center but shared the common goal of adhering to CFRD care guidelines. 1 year after implementation, no center significantly differed from any other in level of adherence to guidelines.

Conclusions

Improving adherence with CFRD care guidelines requires substantial effort and may be incompletely successful, particularly for CFRD screening, but the effort may significantly improve patient monitoring and clinically relevant outcomes such as weight.
Improving clinical handover: Development of a web-based intensive care unit consultation system with structured reply generation
Authors: Ho Jasperine Ka-yee
Published: April 2016

Clinical handover is a process of transferring a patient's clinical information from one team to another. Poor quality of handover of critically ill patients associates with misunderstanding, delay in treatment, and adverse outcomes. Therefore, a high quality and standardized information flow process and documentation are definitely crucial. We have developed a web-based platform for generating printed ICU consultation reply and data collection. Baseline measurement was performed by randomly identified 50 case records among 220 ICU consultations in March 2015, before the implementation of the system. We found that there were only 16% of cases had printed ICU consultation reply, 42% had documented patient's premorbid activity of daily living, 30% had recorded patient's mobility, 74% had written down patient's past medical history, 72% had clearly stated the ICU admission decision, 18% had provided the reasons for rejecting ICU admission, and 32% had remarked the mechanism for contacting ICU senior to review the admission. After implementation of the ICU consultation reply platform, the percentage of using printed consultation reply has increased to more than 90%, documentation of patient's morbidity and mobility have raised to over 80% and patient's past medical history has been recorded in over 95% of cases. Standardised ICU admission decision tree has been designed to assist ICU doctor to clearly state the ICU admission decision and the reasons behind. Appeal mechanism for doctors in general ward to contact ICU seniors for case discussion is included in every consultation reply. In short, ICU consultation platform improves the quality of ICU consultation reply and enhances communication among ICU doctors and general ward staff. It also serves as a big data pool for audit cycles which in turns direct ICU consultation service improvement.
Histone H2AX phosphorylation as a measure of DNA double-strand breaks and a marker of environmental stress and disease activity in lupus
Authors: Namas Rajaie , Renauer Paul , Ognenovski Mikhail , Tsou Pei-Suen , Sawalha Amr H
Published: April 2016

Objective

Defective or inefficient DNA double-strand break (DSB) repair results in failure to preserve genomic integrity leading to apoptotic cell death, a hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Compelling evidence linked environmental factors that increase oxidative stress with SLE risk and the formation of DSBs. In this study, we sought to further explore genotoxic stress sensitivity in SLE by investigating DSB accumulation as a marker linking the effect of environmental stressors and the chromatin microenvironment.

Methods

DSBs were quantified in peripheral blood mononuclear cell subsets from patients with SLE, healthy controls, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by measuring phosphorylated H2AX (phospho-H2AX) levels with flow cytometry. Phospho-H2AX levels were assessed in G0/G1, S and G2 cell-cycle phases using propidium iodide staining, and after oxidative stress using 0.5 µM hydrogen peroxide exposure for 0, 2, 5, 10, 30 and 60 min.

Results

DSB levels were significantly increased in CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and monocytes in SLE compared with healthy controls (p=2.16×10−4, 1.68×10−3and 4.74×10−3, respectively) and RA (p=1.05×10−3, 1.78×10−3and 2.43×10−2, respectively). This increase in DSBs in SLE was independent of the cell-cycle phase, and correlated with disease activity. In CD4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells and monocytes, oxidative stress exposure induced significantly higher DSB accumulation in SLE compared with healthy controls (60 min; p=1.64×10−6, 8.11×10−7and 2.04×10−3, respectively).

Conclusions

Our data indicate that SLE T cells and monocytes have increased baseline DSB levels and an increased sensitivity to acquiring DSBs in response to oxidative stress. Although the mechanism underlying DSB sensitivity in SLE requires further investigation, accumulation of DSB may serve a biomarker for disease activity in SLE and help explain increased apoptotic cell accumulation in this disease.
Diagnostic investigation of Marek's disease in a turkey
Authors: Hughes Katherine , Archer Joy , Constantino‐Casas Fernando , Wozniakowski Grzegorz Jan , Baigent Susan
Published: April 2016

A six‐month‐old female turkey from a commercial growing unit was evaluated at postmortem examination for investigation of suspected viral lymphoproliferative disease. Clinically, the turkey was dull and subdued, and relatively unresponsive to external stimuli. The main gross postmortem findings were diffusely enlarged spleen, kidneys and liver, with multifocal cream foci. The lungs were atelectatic, and mild segmental mural thickening of the small intestines was observed. Impression smears taken during postmortem examination confirmed the presence of a population of neoplastic lymphocytes, which, on histological examination, infiltrated multiple organs. Using quantitative real‐time PCR analysis, spleen and liver samples were positive for Marek's disease virus and negative for herpesvirus of turkeys. A splenic sample was negative for reticuloendotheliosis virus. This case report details gross, cytological and histological findings in a confirmed case of Marek's disease in a turkey where disease manifests as infiltration of numerous organs with pleomorphic neoplastic lymphocytes.
Phosphorylation inactivation of endothelial nitric oxide synthesis in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Ghosh Sudakshina , Gupta Manveen , Xu Weiling , Mavrakis Deloris A. , Janocha Allison J. , Comhair Suzy A. A. , Haque Mohammad Mahfuzul , Stuehr Dennis J. , Yu Jun , Polgar Peter , Naga Prasad Sathyamangla V. , Erzurum Serpil C.
Published: April 2016

The impairment of vasodilator nitric oxide (NO) production is well accepted as a typical marker of endothelial dysfunction in vascular diseases, including in the pathophysiology of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), but the molecular mechanisms accounting for loss of NO production are unknown. We hypothesized that low NO production by pulmonary arterial endothelial cells in PAH is due to inactivation of NO synthase (eNOS) by aberrant phosphorylation of the protein. To test the hypothesis, we evaluated eNOS levels, dimerization, and phosphorylation in the vascular endothelial cells and lungs of patients with PAH compared with controls. In mechanistic studies, eNOS activity in endothelial cells in PAH lungs was found to be inhibited due to phosphorylation at T495. Evidence pointed to greater phosphorylation/activation of protein kinase C (PKC) α and its greater association with eNOS as the source of greater phosphorylation at T495. The presence of greater amounts of pT495-eNOS in plexiform lesions in lungs of patients with PAH confirmed the pathobiological mechanism in vivo. Transfection of the activating mutation of eNOS (T495A/S1177D) restored NO production in PAH cells. Pharmacological blockade of PKC activity by β-blocker also restored NO formation by PAH cells, identifying one mechanism by which β-blockers may benefit PAH and cardiovascular diseases through recovery of endothelial functions.
First Autologous Cord Blood Therapy for Pediatric Ischemic Stroke and Cerebral Palsy Caused by Cephalic Molding during Birth: Individual Treatment with Mononuclear Cells
Authors: Jensen A. , Hamelmann E.
Published: April 2016

Intracranial laceration due to traumatic birth injury is an extremely rare event affecting approximately one newborn per a population of 4.5 million. However, depending on the mode of injury, the resulting brain damage may lead to lifelong sequelae, for example, cerebral palsy for which there is no cure at present. Here we report a rare case of neonatal arterial ischemic stroke and cerebral palsy caused by fetal traumatic molding and parietal depression of the head during delivery caused by functional cephalopelvic disproportion due to a “long pelvis.” This patient was treated by autologous cord blood mononuclear cells (45.8 mL, cryopreserved, TNC2.53×10e8) with a remarkable recovery. Active rehabilitation was provided weekly. Follow-up examinations were at 3, 18, 34, and 57 months. Generous use of neonatal head MRI in case of molding, craniofacial deformity, and a sentinel event during parturition is advocated to enhance diagnosis of neonatal brain damage as a basis for fast and potentially causative treatment modalities including autologous cord blood transplantation in a timely manner.
Multiple Coronary Artery Microfistulas in a Girl with Kleefstra Syndrome
Authors: Vargiami Euthymia , Ververi Athina , Al-Mutawa Hamda , Gioula Georgia , Gerou Spyridon , Rouvalis Fotios , Kambouris Marios , Zafeiriou Dimitrios I.
Published: April 2016

Kleefstra syndrome is characterized by hypotonia, developmental delay, dysmorphic features, congenital heart defects, and so forth. It is caused by 9q34.3 microdeletions orEHMT1mutations. Herein a 20-month-old girl with Kleefstra syndrome, due to a de novo subterminal deletion, is described. She exhibits a rare and complex cardiopathy, encompassing multiple coronary artery microfistulas, VSD/ASD, and PFO.
Effects of Acute Endurance Exercise on Plasma Protein Profiles of Endurance-Trained and Untrained Individuals over Time
Authors: Schild Marius , Eichner Gerrit , Beiter Thomas , Zügel Martina , Krumholz-Wagner Ilke , Hudemann Jens , Pilat Christian , Krüger Karsten , Niess Andreas M. , Steinacker Jürgen M. , Mooren Frank C.
Published: April 2016

Acute physical exercise and repeated exercise stimuli affect whole-body metabolic and immunologic homeostasis. The aim of this study was to determine plasma protein profiles of trained (EET,n=19) and untrained (SED,n=17) individuals at rest and in response to an acute bout of endurance exercise. Participants completed a bicycle exercise test at an intensity corresponding to 80% of theirVO2max. Plasma samples were taken before, directly after, and three hours after exercise and analyzed using multiplex immunoassays. Seventy-eight plasma variables were included in the final analysis. Twenty-nine variables displayed significant acute exercise effects in both groups. Seven proteins differed between groups, without being affected by acute exercise. Among these A2Macro and IL-5 were higher in EET individuals while leptin showed elevated levels in SED individuals. Fifteen variables revealed group and time differences with elevated levels for IL-3, IL-7, IL-10, and TNFR2 in EET individuals. An interaction effect could be observed for nine variables including IL-6, MMP-2, MMP-3, and muscle damage markers. The proteins that differ between groups indicate a long-term exercise effect on plasma protein concentrations. These findings might be of importance in the development of exercise-based strategies in the prevention and therapy of chronic metabolic and inflammatory diseases and for training monitoring.
CryJ-LAMP DNA Vaccines for Japanese Red Cedar Allergy Induce Robust Th1-Type Immune Responses in Murine Model
Authors: Su Yan , Connolly Michael , Marketon Anthony , Heiland Teri
Published: April 2016

Allergies caused by Japanese Red Cedar (JRC) pollen affect up to a third of Japanese people, necessitating development of an effective therapeutic. We utilized the lysosomal targeting property of lysosomal-associated membrane protein-1 (LAMP-1) to make DNA vaccines that encode LAMP-1 and the sequences of immunodominant allergen CryJ1 or CryJ2 from the JRC pollen. This novel strategy is designed to skew the CD4 T cell responses to the target allergens towards a nonallergenic Th1 response. CryJ1-LAMP and CryJ2-LAMP were administrated to BALB/c mice and antigen-specific Th1-type IgG2a and Th2-type IgG1 antibodies, as well as IgE antibodies, were assayed longitudinally. We also isolated different T cell populations from immunized mice and adoptively transferred them into naïve mice followed by CryJ1/CryJ2 protein boosts. We demonstrated that CryJ-LAMP immunized mice produce high levels of IFN-γand anti-CryJ1 or anti-CryJ2 IgG2a antibodies and low levels of IgE antibodies, suggesting that a Th1 response was induced. In addition, we found that CD4+T cells are the immunological effectors of DNA vaccination in this allergy model. Together, our results suggest the CryJ-LAMP Vaccine has a potential as an effective therapeutic for JRC induced allergy by skewing Th1/Th2 responses.
FoodborneListeria monocytogenes: A Real Challenge in Quality Control
Authors: Pusztahelyi Tünde , Szabó Judit , Dombrádi Zsuzsanna , Kovács Szilvia , Pócsi István
Published: April 2016

Listeria monocytogenesis a foodborne pathogen, and the detection and differentiation of this bacterium from the nonpathogenicListeriaspecies are of great importance to the food industry. Differentiation ofListeriaspecies is very difficult, even with the sophisticated MALDI-TOF MS technique because of the close genetic relationship of the species and the usual gene transfer. The present paper emphasizes the difficulties of the differentiation through the standardized detection and confirmation according to ISO 11290-1:1996 and basic availableL. monocytogenesdetection methods and tests (such as APIListeriatest, MALDI-TOF MS analysis, andhlygene PCR). With the increase of reports on the pathogenesis of atypicalListeriastrains in humans, the significance of species level determination has become questionable, especially in food quality control, and the detection of pathogenic characteristics seems to be more relevant.
Vaccinating Adult Patients with Cirrhosis: Trends over a Decade in the United States
Authors: Waghray Abhijeet , Waghray Nisheet , Khallafi Hicham , Menon K. V. Narayanan
Published: April 2016

Introduction. The progression of chronic liver disease to cirrhosis involves both innate and adaptive immune system dysfunction resulting in increased risk of infectious complications. Vaccinations against pneumococcus, hepatitis A virus (HAV), and hepatitis B virus (HBV) are well tolerated and effective in disease prevention and reduction in morbidity and mortality. Prior studies assessing vaccination rates in patients with cirrhosis have specific limitations and to date no study has provided a comprehensive evaluation of vaccination rates in patients with cirrhosis in the United States.Aim. This study assessed vaccination rates for pneumococcus, HAV, and HBV in patients with cirrhosis.Results. Overall 59.7% of patients with cirrhosis received at least 1 vaccination during the study period. Vaccination rates within the same or following year of cirrhosis diagnosis were 19.9%, 7.7%, and 11.0% against pneumococcus, HAV, and HBV, respectively. Trend analysis revealed significant increases in vaccination rates for pneumococcus in all patients with cirrhosis and within subgroups based on age, gender, and presence of concomitant diabetes.Conclusion. The study demonstrated that vaccination rates in patients with cirrhosis remain suboptimal. Ultimately, the use of electronic medical record (EMR) reminders improved communication between healthcare professionals and public health programs to increase awareness are fundamental to reducing morbidity, mortality, and health-care related costs of vaccine preventable diseases in patients with cirrhosis.
Research on Properties of Foamed Concrete Reinforced with Small Sized Glazed Hollow Beads
Authors: Hu Chi , Li Hui , Liu Zhongwei , Wang Qingyuan
Published: April 2016

Foamed concrete (400 kg/m3) was prepared through a physical foaming method using ordinary Portland cement (42.5R), vegetable protein foaming agent, fly ash, and glazed hollow beads (GHB, K46) as raw materials. The performance of cement paste as well as the structure and distribution of air voids was characterized by rheometry, SEM, and XRD analyses with imaging software. The effects of GHBs on the compressive strength and thermal conductivity of the foamed concrete sample were also explored. Results show that the proportion of 50–400 μm air voids, average air-void diameter, 28 d compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of the test sample mixed with 2.4 wt% GHBs are 94.44%, 182.10 μm, 2.39 MPa, and 0.0936 w/(m·k), respectively. Excessive amount of GHBs (>2.4 wt%) increases the amount of air voids with diameter smaller than 50 μm in the hardened foamed concrete as well as the degree of open porosity. Moreover, the proportion of 50–400 μm air voids, average air-void diameter, 28 d compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of the sample mixed with 4.0 wt% GHBs are 88.54%, 140.50 μm, 2.05 MPa, and 0.0907 w/(m·k), respectively.
Neuroinfection as a Mask of Lung Cancer: A Case Series
Authors: Kuklińska Beata , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna , Mróz Robert , Pancewicz Sławomir , Zajkowska Joanna
Published: April 2016

Introduction. The diagnosis of lung cancer may still be difficult due to the fact that the first symptoms very often mimic symptoms of other diseases.Case Presentation. In this paper we present two cases, in which initial diagnosis of neuroinfection delayed proper diagnosis.Conclusion. Based on our experience we concluded that neurological symptoms in the area endemic for tick-borne diseases suggesting neuroinfection require careful differential diagnosis. Moreover, neurological symptoms in heavy smokers may be associated with metastases of lung cancer.
Protecting Clock Synchronization: Adversary Detection through Network Monitoring
Authors: Lisova Elena , Gutiérrez Marina , Steiner Wilfried , Uhlemann Elisabeth , Åkerberg Johan , Dobrin Radu , Björkman Mats
Published: April 2016

Nowadays, industrial networks are often used for safety-critical applications with real-time requirements. Such applications usually have a time-triggered nature with message scheduling as a core property. Scheduling requires nodes to share the same notion of time, that is, to be synchronized. Therefore, clock synchronization is a fundamental asset in real-time networks. However, since typical standards for clock synchronization, for example, IEEE 1588, do not provide the required level of security, it raises the question of clock synchronization protection. In this paper, we identify a way to break synchronization based on the IEEE 1588 standard, by conducting a man-in-the-middle (MIM) attack followed by a delay attack. A MIM attack can be accomplished through, for example, Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) poisoning. Using the AVISPA tool, we evaluate the potential to perform a delay attack using ARP poisoning and analyze its consequences showing both that the attack can, indeed, break clock synchronization and that some design choices, such as a relaxed synchronization condition mode, delay bounding, and using knowledge of environmental conditions, can make the network more robust/resilient against these kinds of attacks. Lastly, a Configuration Agent is proposed to monitor and detect anomalies introduced by an adversary performing attacks targeting clock synchronization.
Psoralen and Isopsoralen Ameliorate Sex Hormone Deficiency-Induced Osteoporosis in Female and Male Mice
Authors: Yuan Xiaomei , Bi Yanan , Yan Zeman , Pu Weiling , Li Yuhong , Zhou Kun
Published: April 2016

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease, which is characterized by a systemic destruction of bone mass and microarchitecture. With life standard improved, the treatment of osteoporosis attracted more attention. The aim of this study is to verify the osteoprotective effect of psoralen and isopsoralen in females and males. Female and male mice were divided into 7 groups in this study: control group (sham-operation), model group (by ovariectomy or orchidectomy), positive control group (females given estradiol valerate; males given alendronate sodium), psoralen groups (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg), and isopsoralen groups (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). After administration of psoralen and isopsoralen for 8 weeks, osteoporosis was ameliorated with increasing bone strength and improving trabecular bone microstructure as indicated by CT scan and pathology. Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), tartrate resistant acid phosphatase (TRACP), osteocalcin (OC), and C-terminal cross-linking telopeptides of type I collagen (CTX-1) were examined. Decreased TRACP and increased ALP/TRACP suggested restoring from bone destruction. These results suggest that psoralen and isopsoralen may be used as good natural compounds for the treatment of osteoporosis in males, as well as females.
Early Treatment of Acute Complex Regional Pain Syndrome after Fracture or Injury with Prednisone: Why Is There a Failure to Treat? A Case Series
Authors: Winston Paul
Published: April 2016

Background. Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) after fracture is a cause of pain, dysfunction, and potentially permanent disability. The evidence for treatment with oral corticosteroids is growing and supported by several international guidelines; however, treatment is not widely offered.Objective. Rapid recognition and treatment of complex regional pain in the upper extremity after acute injury as a disease modifying and potentially curative treatment.Methods. The present study was a case series involving three patients who developed CRPS after a trauma to the neck and/or upper limb. Patients were screened by clinical examination and bone scan and met the Budapest criteria.Results. Resolution of pain, swelling, and disability in all three patients.Discussion. There is increasing support, based on the existing evidence and clinical outcomes, for the use of prednisone to treat the acute phase of CRPS and as a promising treatment to halt the progression of the phenomenon and potentially cure the condition; however, widespread use of prednisone likely remains low, potentially resulting in long-term pain, joint contracture, and disability. A large-scale randomized control trial has not been performed.Conclusion. Corticosteroids can be an effective treatment option for CRPS after fracture.
Influence of the Total Gas Flow at Different Reaction Times for CVD-Graphene Synthesis on Polycrystalline Nickel
Authors: Lavin-Lopez M. P. , Valverde J. L. , Sanchez-Silva L. , Romero A.
Published: April 2016

Optimization of the total gas flow (CH4+H2) during the reaction step for different reaction times for CVD-graphene synthesis on polycrystalline nickel foil using an atmospheric pressure set-up is reported. Athickness valuerelated to number of graphene layers in each of the synthesized samples was determined using an Excel-VBA application. This method assigned athickness valuebetween 1 and 1000 and provided information on the percentage of each type of graphene (monolayer, bilayer, and multilayer) deposited onto the polycrystalline nickel sheet. The influence of the total gas flow during the reaction step and the reaction time was studied in detail. Optical microscopy showed that samples were covered with different types of graphene, such as multilayer, few-layer, bilayer, and monolayer graphene. The synthesis variables were optimized according to thethickness valueand the results were verified by Raman spectroscopy. The best conditions were obtained with a reaction temperature of 980°C, a CH4/H2flow rate ratio of 0.07 v/v, a reaction time of 1 minute, and a total gas flow of 80 NmL/min. In the sample obtained under the optimized conditions, 80% of the area was covered with monolayer graphene and less than 1% with multilayer graphene.
One-Dimensional TiO2-B Crystals Synthesised by Hydrothermal Process and Their Antibacterial Behaviour onEscherichia coli
Authors: León-Ríos Sergio , Espinoza González Rodrigo , Fuentes Sandra , Chávez Ángel Emigdio , Echeverría Alex , Serrano Antonio E. , Demergasso Cecilia S. , Zárate R. Antonio
Published: April 2016

We have successfully synthesised one-dimensional single crystals of monoclinic phase titanium dioxide nanostructures (TiO2-B), prepared by a hydrothermal process. Morphological characterization was carried out by atomic force and scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques. In order to study the crystalline structure, samples were calcined at 500°C in an air-filled chamber. X-ray diffraction results indicated that as-prepared samples presented diffraction patterns of hydrate hydrogen titanate and those calcined at 500°C exhibited the TiO2-B and anatase phases, confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy results showed that the one-dimensional nanostructures had high contrast and uniform widths for those synthesised and calcined, indicating the formation of a phase of monocrystals. Besides, a proof of the antibacterial effect was carried out of the monoclinic phase of TiO2-B onEscherichia colipure cultures, where the viability of the bacterium decreases in presence of TiO2-B nanostructures plus UV illumination. Monocrystals did not change after photocatalytic tests, suggesting a possible application as long-term antibacterial protection.