bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Case Study: Pennsylvania's Changing Workforce: Planning Today with Tomorrow's Vision
Authors: Helton Kimberly A. , Soubik John A.
Published: November 2013

Workforce planning has become a topic of heightened interest as the baby boomer generation edges towards retirement, making workforce and replacement strategies necessary. This manuscript defines workforce planning and indicates reasons for its importance. It also outlines the environment and challenges the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania faces, as it Implements various workforce planning initiatives. The framework and methodology used in Pennsylvania are outlined, as well as significant milestones achieved and lessons learned throughout the process. Pennsylvania has formulated a number of short- and long-term strategies, and this manuscript provides information on each of them. Pennsylvania's approach is designed to maintain a workforce capable of meeting the evolving operational and staffing needs of the Commonwealth. The approach recognizes and requires focused resources for critical areas, top-level endorsement and collaborative efforts among stakeholders for effective decision-making, broad application and technological utilization for the implementation of reliable workforce plans.
The nine domains of community music: Exploring the crossroads of formal and informal music education
Authors: Schippers Huib , Bartleet Brydie-Leigh
Published: November 2013

While there have been many efforts to define community music, definitions have tended to be either too specific or too general to be of great use to practitioners. Much of the published research on the topic seems to be based on single projects, often conducted by the facilitators involved. While this has led to valuable contributions to understanding the scope and breadth of this field, it has done little to create perspectives that can be applied across the wide gamut of practices referred to as community music activities. Sound links, an extensive research project conducted in Australia with support from the Australian Research Council, has compared six divergent practices across the country with a consistent – principally ethnographic – methodology, yielding a wealth of insights into the working of this phenomenon. One of the key outcomes of the project is not a new definition of community music, but rather a framework that maps out the key ‘ingredients’ of successful practices across demographic, geographic, cultural, and contextual variations. These enable better understanding, planning, execution and evaluation of community music activities.
Sonic Subjectivity and Auditory Perspective in Ratatouille
Authors: Collins Karen
Published: November 2013

Using examples from Ratatouille, this article illustrates how sound can be used to create identification with characters through an auditory perspective. This auditory perspective is created through reinforcing or contradicting the on-screen image with microphone placement to create distance, loudspeaker positioning to create location, digital signal processing effects to create environments, and subjective perspectives that position us as an insider or outsider, and which illustrate the internal subjectivity of characters.
The value of radiographic findings for the progression of pandemic 2009 influenza A/H1N1 virus infection
Authors: Funaki Takanori , Shoji Kensuke , Yotani Nobuyuki , Katsuta Tomohiro , Miyazaki Osamu , Nosaka Shunsuke , Masaki Hidekazu , Saitoh Akihiko
Published: November 2013

Background

Most illnesses caused by pandemic influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 virus (A/H1N1) infection are acute and self-limiting among children. However, in some children, disease progression is rapid and may require hospitalization and transfer to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). We investigated factors associated with rapid disease progression among children admitted to hospital for A/H1N1 infection, particularly findings on initial chest radiographs.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we investigated the records of children who had received a laboratory or clinical diagnosis of A/H1N1 infection and were admitted to the largest children’s hospital in Japan between May 2009 and March 2010. The medical records were reviewed for age, underlying diseases, vital signs on admission, initial chest radiographic findings, and clinical outcomes. According to chest radiographic findings, patients were classified into 4 groups, as follows: [1] normal (n = 46), [2] hilar and/or peribronchial markings alone (n = 64), [3] consolidation (n = 64), and [4] other findings (n = 29). Factors associated with clinical outcomes were analyzed using logistic regression.

Results

Two hundreds and three patients (median 6.8 years) were enrolled in this study. Fifteen percent (31/203) of patients were admitted to PICU. Among 31 patients, 39% (12/31) of patients required mechanical ventilation (MV). When the initial chest radiographic findings were compared between patients with consolidation (n = 64) and those without consolidation (n = 139), a higher percentage of patients with consolidation were admitted to PICU (29.7% vs.8.6%, P < 0.001) and required MV (17.2% vs. 0.7%, P < 0.001). These findings remain significant when the data were analyzed with the logistic regression (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Consolidation on initial chest radiographs was the most significant factor to predict clinical course of hospitalized children with the 2009 A/H1N1 infection.
Annexin A7 suppresses lymph node metastasis of hepatocarcinoma cells in a mouse model
Authors: Jin Yanling , Wang Shaoqing , Chen Wenjing , Zhang Jun , Wang Bo , Guan Hongwei , Tang Jianwu
Published: November 2013

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death in China. This study investigated the effects of Annexin A7 (ANXA7) on the inhibition of HCC lymph node metastasis in a mouse model.

Methods

The stable knockup and knockdown of Annexin A7-expressing HCC cells using Annexin A7 cDNA and shRNA vectors, respectively, were injected into a mouse footpad to establish primary and metastatic tumors in mice. On the 14th, 21st, and 28th days after HCC cells inoculation, the mice were sacrificed for inspection of primary and secondary tumors and immunohistochemistry of Annexin A7 expression.

Results

The lymph node metastasis rate of the FANXA7-control group was 77%, and the lymph node metastasis rate of the FANXA7-down group was 100% (p < 0.05). In contrast, the lymph node metastasis rate of the PANXA7-up group was 0% and that of the PANXA7-control group was 36% (p < 0.05). Furthermore, immunohistochemistry experiments revealed that the subcellular localization of Annexin A7 protein in both primary and lymph node-metastasized tumors was mainly in the cytosol. In addition, the expression of the 47 kDa and 51 kDa isoforms of Annexin A7 protein changed during tumor progression.

Conclusion

This study indicated that Annexin A7 expression was able to inhibit HCC lymph node metastasis, whereas knockdown of Annexin A7 expression significantly induced HCC metastasis to local lymph nodes.
Temporal organization of rest defined by actigraphy data in healthy and childhood chronic fatigue syndrome children
Authors: Kawabata Minako , Ueno Taro , Tomita Jun , Kawatani Junko , Tomoda Akemi , Kume Shoen , Kume Kazuhiko
Published: November 2013

Background

Accumulating evidence has shown a universality in the temporal organization of activity and rest among animals ranging from mammals to insects. Previous reports in both humans and mice showed that rest bout durations followed long-tailed (i.e., power-law) distributions, whereas activity bouts followed exponential distributions. We confirmed similar results in the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Conversely, another report showed that the awakening bout durations, which were defined by polysomnography in bed, followed power-law distributions, while sleeping periods, which may correspond to rest, followed exponential distributions. This apparent discrepancy has been left to be resolved.

Methods

Actigraphy data from healthy and disordered children were analyzed separately for two periods: time out of bed (UP period) and time in bed (DOWN period).

Results

When data over a period of 24 h were analyzed as a whole, rest bouts showed a power law distribution as previously reported. However, when UP and DOWN period data were analyzed separately, neither showed power law properties. Using a newly developed strict method, only 30% of individuals satisfied the power law criteria, even when the 24 h data were analyzed. The human results were in contrast to the Drosophila results, which revealed clear power-law distributions for both day time and night time rest through the use of a strict method. In addition, we analyzed the actigraphy data from patients with childhood type chronic fatigue syndrome (CCFS), and found that they showed differences from healthy controls when their UP and DOWN data were analyzed separately.

Conclusions

These results suggested that the DOWN sleep, the bout distribution of which showed exponential properties, contributes to the production of long-tail distributions in human rest periods. We propose that separate analysis of UP and DOWN period data is important for understanding the temporal organization of activity.
Investigation of factors potentially influencing calcitonin levels in the screening and follow-up for medullary thyroid carcinoma: a cautionary note
Authors: Guesgen Christoph , Willms Arnulf , Zwad Axel , Waldeck Stephan , Wieler Helmut , Schwab Robert
Published: November 2013

Background

The malignant transformation of thyroid C cells is associated with an increase in human calcitonin (hCT), which can thus be helpful in the early diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). For this reason, hCT levels should be determined in all patients with nodular goitre. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, nodular goitre and proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy are factors reported to influence basal serum hCT concentrations. The diagnostic role of mildly to moderately increased hCT levels is thus a matter of debate. In this study, we attempt to clarify the role of the aforementioned factors.

Methods

From 2008 to 2009, we collected data from 493 patients who were divided into five groups. We assessed whether there were significant differences in hCT levels between patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, patients with nodular goitre, patients with PPI therapy, and healthy control subjects. In addition, we investigated whether a delayed analysis of blood samples has an effect on serum hCT concentrations.

Results

Immunoradiometric assays (Calcitonin IRMA magnum, MEDIPAN) revealed that the time of analysis did not play a role when low levels were measured. Delayed analysis, however, carried the risk of false low results when serum hCT concentrations were elevated. Men had significantly higher serum hCT levels than women. The serum hCT concentrations of patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and nodular goitre were not significantly different from those of control subjects. Likewise, PPI therapy did not lead to a significant increase in serum hCT concentrations regardless of the presence or absence of nodular goitre.

Conclusions

Increases in serum hCT levels are not necessarily attributable to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, nodular goitre or the regular use of PPIs and always require further diagnostic attention.
Lifesaving emergency obstetric services are inadequate in south-west Ethiopia: a formidable challenge to reducing maternal mortality in Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Meseret , Yaya Yaliso , Gebrehanna Ewenat , Berhane Yemane , Lindtjørn Bernt
Published: November 2013

Background

Most maternal deaths take place during labour and within a few weeks after delivery. The availability and utilization of emergency obstetric care facilities is a key factor in reducing maternal mortality; however, there is limited evidence about how these institutions perform and how many people use emergency obstetric care facilities in rural Ethiopia. We aimed to assess the availability, quality, and utilization of emergency obstetric care services in the Gamo Gofa Zone of south-west Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of three hospitals and 63 health centres in Gamo Gofa. Using a retrospective review, we recorded obstetric services, documents, cards, and registration books of mothers treated and served in the Gamo Gofa Zone health facilities between July 2009 and June 2010.

Results

There were three basic and two comprehensive emergency obstetric care qualifying facilities for the 1,740,885 people living in Gamo Gofa. The proportion of births attended by skilled attendants in the health facilities was 6.6% of expected births, though the variation was large. Districts with a higher proportion of midwives per capita, hospitals and health centres capable of doing emergency caesarean sections had higher institutional delivery rates. There were 521 caesarean sections (0.8% of 64,413 expected deliveries and 12.3% of 4,231 facility deliveries). We recorded 79 (1.9%) maternal deaths out of 4,231 deliveries and pregnancy-related admissions at institutions, most often because of post-partum haemorrhage (42%), obstructed labour (15%) and puerperal sepsis (15%). Remote districts far from the capital of the Zone had a lower proportion of institutional deliveries (<2% of expected births compared to an overall average of 6.6%). Moreover, some remotely located institutions had very high maternal deaths (>4% of deliveries, much higher than the average 1.9%).

Conclusion

Based on a population of 1.7 million people, there should be 14 basic and four comprehensive emergency obstetric care (EmOC) facilities in the Zone. Our study found that only three basic and two comprehensive EmOC service qualifying facilities serve this large population which is below the UN’s minimum recommendation. The utilization of the existing facilities for delivery was also low, which is clearly inadequate to reduce maternal deaths to the MDG target.
A novel multigene expression construct for modification of glycerol metabolism in Yarrowia lipolytica
Authors: Celińska Ewelina , Grajek Włodzimierz
Published: November 2013

Background

High supply of raw, residual glycerol from biodiesel production plants promote the search for novel biotechnological methods of its utilization. In this study we attempted modification of glycerol catabolism in a nonconventional yeast species Yarrowia lipolytica through genetic engineering approach.

Results

To address this, we developed a novel genetic construct which allows transferring three heterologous genes, encoding glycerol dehydratase, its reactivator and a wide-spectrum alcohol oxidoreductase under the control of glycerol-induced promoter. The three genes, tandemly arrayed in an expression cassette with a marker gene ura3, regulatory and targeting sequences (G3P dh promoter and XPR-like terminator, 28S rDNA as a target locus), were transferred into Yarrowia lipolytica cells. The obtained recombinant strain NCYC3825 was characterized at the molecular level and with respect to its biotechnological potential. Our experiments indicated that the novel recombinant strain stably borne one copy of the expression cassette and efficiently expressed heterologous alcohol oxidoreductase, while glycerol dehydratase and its reactivator were expressed at lower level. Comparative shake flask cultivations in glucose- and glycerol-based media demonstrated higher biomass production by the recombinant strain when glycerol was the main carbon source. During bioreactor (5 L) fed-batch cultivation in glycerol-based medium, the recombinant strain was characterized by relatively high biomass and lipids accumulation (up to 42 gDCW L-1, and a peak value of 38%LIPIDS of DCW, respectively), and production of high titers of citric acid (59 g L-1) and 2-phenylethanol (up to 1 g L-1 in shake flask cultivation), which are industrially attractive bioproducts.

Conclusions

Due to heterogeneous nature of the observed alterations, we postulate that the main driving force of the modified phenotype was faster growth in glycerol-based media, triggered by modifications in the red-ox balance brought by the wide spectrum oxidoreductase. Our results demonstrate the potential multidirectional use of a novel Yarrowia lipolytica strain as a microbial cell factory.
Effects of a 7-day military training exercise on inflammatory biomarkers, serum hepcidin, and iron status
Authors: McClung James P , Martini Svein , Murphy Nancy E , Montain Scott J , Margolis Lee M , Thrane Ingjerd , Spitz Marissa G , Blatny Janet-Martha , Young Andrew J , Gundersen Yngvar , Pasiakos Stefan M
Published: November 2013

Background

Hepcidin, a peptide that is released into the blood in response to inflammation, prevents cellular iron export and results in declines in iron status. Elevated serum and urinary levels of hepcidin have been observed in athletes following exercise, and declines in iron status have been reported following prolonged periods of training. The objective of this observational study was to characterize the effects of an occupational task, military training, on iron status, inflammation, and serum hepcidin.

Findings

Volunteers (n = 21 males) included Norwegian Soldiers participating in a 7-day winter training exercise that culminated in a 3-day, 54 km ski march. Fasted blood samples were collected at baseline, on day 4 (PRE, prior to the ski march), and again on day 7 (POST, following the ski march). Samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, serum ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and serum hepcidin. Military training affected inflammation and serum hepcidin levels, as IL-6 and hepcidin concentrations increased (P < 0.05) from the baseline to POST (mean ± SD, 9.1 ± 4.9 vs. 14.5 ± 8.4 pg/mL and 6.5 ± 3.5 vs. 10.2 ± 6.9 ng/mL, respectively). Iron status was not affected by the training exercise, as sTfR levels did not change over the course of the 7-day study.

Conclusions

Military training resulted in significant elevations in IL-6 and serum hepcidin. Future studies should strive to identify the role of hepcidin in the adaptive response to exercise, as well as countermeasures for the prevention of chronic or repeated elevations in serum hepcidin due to exercise or sustained occupational tasks which may result in longer term decrements in iron status.
Comparison of child self-reports and parent proxy-reports on quality of life of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Marques Juliana CB , Oliveira Jorge A , Goulardins Juliana B , Nascimento Roseane O , Lima Allana MV , Casella Erasmo B
Published: November 2013

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition that affects 3%–7% of the pediatric population and significantly compromises the quality of life (QoL) of these individuals. The aim of the current study was to compare child self-reports and parent proxy reports on the QoL of children with ADHD.

Methods

Forty-five children with ADHD, combined type, aged 8–12 years without comorbidities, were compared with 43 typically developing children. PedsQL™ 4.0 (Pediatric QoL Inventory™) Generic Core Scales (physical, emotional, social, and school functioning) were completed by families and children self-reporting their health-related QoL.

Results

Children with ADHD reported themselves significantly lowered their PedsQL™ scores on all dimensions in comparison to typically developing children. Statistically significant differences were observed in social functioning (p = 0.010), school functioning (p <0.001), psychosocial health (p <0.001), and total score (p = 0.002). The physical functioning and emotional functioning dimensions did not differ significantly between groups, with p = 0.841 and p = 0.070, respectively. Parents of children with ADHD also reported lower PedsQL™ scores, with statistically significant differences in all dimensions. The relationship between child self-reports and parent proxy reports indicated that there is greater agreement among children with ADHD, except for the school functioning.

Conclusions

This suggests that children with the disorder and their parents have a perception of the functional limitations the disorder brings. It is therefore important to undertake studies to verify the QoL in children with ADHD that aim to provide and measure the scope of the well-being of these children.
Surgical approach for the treatment of aortoesophageal fistula combined with dual aortic aneurysms: a case report
Authors: Xu Rihao , Wang Tiance , Li Dan , Zhu Zhicheng , Zhang Shudong , Xuan Chengluan , Yan Wen , Liu Kexiang
Published: November 2013

Aortoesophageal fistula is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. The disease is with high mortality due to aneurysm rupture, and thus successfully managed cases are rarely reported. Here, we report a case of aortoesophageal fistula caused by a huge descending aneurysm and another smaller aneurysm found in the aortic arch. Such case was relatively rare in the cardiovascular field. Due to the limited experience, it was difficult to determine the proper therapeutic strategy. For this case, for the dual aneurysm, we surgically inserted an aortic endovascular stent-graft to exclusive the aneurysm and simultaneously repair the other aortic arch aneurysm. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged after 1 month antibiotics therapy for the palliative treatment of the esophageal fistula. She survived for 8 months at home before dying of massive hematemesis. Here, we present the operative method and our therapeutic experience for this extremely rare case.
Potential role of gastrointestinal microbiota composition in prostate cancer risk
Authors: Amirian E Susan , Petrosino Joseph F , Ajami Nadim J , Liu Yanhong , Mims Martha P , Scheurer Michael E
Published: November 2013

Background

Among men in the U.S., prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death. Despite its prevalence, there are few established risk factors for prostate cancer. Some studies have found that intake of certain foods/nutrients may be associated with prostate cancer risk, but few have accounted for how intake and metabolic factors may interact to influence bioavailable nutrient levels and subsequent disease risk.

Presentation of the hypothesis

The composition of the gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome may influence metabolism of dietary compounds and nutrients (e.g., plant phenols, calcium, choline) that may be relevant to prostate cancer risk. We, therefore, propose the hypothesis that GI microbiota may have a markedly different composition among individuals with higher prostate cancer risk. These individuals could have microbial profiles that are conducive to intestinal inflammation and/or are less favorable for the metabolism and uptake of chemopreventive agents.

Testing the hypothesis

Because very little preliminary data exist on this potential association, a case–control study may provide valuable information on this topic. Such a study could evaluate whether the GI microbial profile is markedly different between three groups of individuals: healthy men, those with latent prostate cancer, and those with invasive prostate cancer. Any findings could then be validated in a larger study, designed to collect a series of specimens over time.

Implications of the hypothesis

Given the plethora of information emerging from the Human Microbiome Project, this is an opportune time to explore associations between the microbiome and complex human diseases. Identification of profiles that alter the host’s risk for disease may clarify inconsistencies in the literature on dietary factors and cancer risk, and could provide valuable targets for novel cancer prevention strategies.
Encephalitozoon intestinalis infection increases host cell mutation frequency
Authors: Leonard Cory Ann , Schell Maria , Schoborg Robert Vincent , Hayman James Russell
Published: November 2013

Background

Microsporidia are obligate intracellular opportunistic fungi that cause significant pathology in immunocompromised hosts. However, 11 percent of immunocompetent individuals in the general population are microsporidia-seropositive, indicating that severe immune suppression may not be a prerequisite for infection. Encephalitozoon intestinalis is transmitted in contaminated water and initially infects gastro-intestinal enterocytes, leading to diarrheal disease. This organism can also disseminate to many other organs. A recent report suggests that microsporidia can establish persistent infections, which anti-fungal treatment does not eradicate. Like other intracellular pathogens, microsporidia infection stresses the host cell and infected individuals have elevated hydrogen peroxide and free radical levels.

Findings

As oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage, we hypothesized that E. intestinalis- infection would increase host cell nuclear mutation rate. Embryo fibroblasts from Big BlueTM transgenic mice were E. intestinalis-infected and host nuclear mutation frequency was determined by selection of temperature-sensitive c-II gene mutant λ phage. The host mutation frequency in E. intestinalis-infected cultures was 2.5-fold higher than that observed in either mock-infected cells or cells infected with UV-inactivated E. intestinalis spores.

Conclusions

These data provide the first evidence that microsporidia infection can directly increase host cellular mutation frequency. Additionally, some event in the microsporidia developmental cycle between host cell attachment and parasitophorous vacuole formation is required for the observed effect. As there is considerable evidence linking infection with other intracellular pathogens and cancer, future studies to dissect the mechanism by which E. intestinalis infection increases host mutation frequency are warranted.
Increased abundance of Sutterella spp. and Ruminococcus torques in feces of children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Wang Lv , Christophersen Claus T , Sorich Michael J , Gerber Jacobus P , Angley Manya T , Conlon Michael A
Published: November 2013

Background

A recent report indicated that numbers of Sutterella spp. are elevated in gastrointestinal biopsies taken from children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We have recently reported changes in the numbers of some bacteria within the stool of ASD children, and now examine whether numbers of Sutterella spp. and some other mucosa-associated bacteria linked with gastrointestinal disease (Ruminococcus gnavus and Ruminococcus torques) are also altered in the stool of these children.

Findings

We show that numbers of Sutterella spp. are elevated in feces of ASD children relative to controls, and that numbers of R. torques are higher in the children with ASD with a reported functional gastrointestinal disorder than those without such a disorder.

Conclusions

We show further evidence of changes in the gut microbiota of children with ASD and confirm that the abundance of Sutterella spp. is altered in stool.
Platelets of mice heterozygous for neurobeachin, a candidate gene for autism spectrum disorder, display protein changes related to aberrant protein kinase A activity
Authors: Nuytens Kim , Tuand Krizia , Di Michele Michela , Boonen Kurt , Waelkens Etienne , Freson Kathleen , Creemers John WM
Published: November 2013

Background

Neurobeachin (NBEA) has been identified as a candidate gene for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in several unrelated patients with alterations in the NBEA gene. The exact function of NBEA, a multidomain scaffolding protein, is currently unknown. It contains an A-kinase anchoring protein (AKAP) domain which binds the regulatory subunit of protein kinase A (PKA) thereby confining its activity to specific subcellular regions. NBEA has been implicated in post-Golgi membrane trafficking and in regulated secretion. The mechanism of regulated secretion is largely conserved between neurons and platelets, and the morphology of platelet dense granules was found to be abnormal in several ASD patients, including one with NBEA haploinsufficiency. Platelet dense granules are secreted upon vascular injury when platelets are exposed to for instance collagen. Dense granules contain serotonin, ATP and ADP, which are necessary for platelet plug formation and vascular contraction.

Methods

To further investigate possible roles for NBEA in secretion or dense granule morphology, platelets from Nbea+/- mice were analyzed morphometrically, functionally and biochemically. A differential proteomics and peptidomics screen was performed between Nbea+/- and Nbea+/+ mice, in which altered Talin-1 cleavage was further investigated and validated in brain samples. Finally, the phosphorylation pattern of PKA substrates was analyzed.

Results

Platelet dense granules of Nbea+/- mice had a reduced surface area and abnormal dense-core halo, but normal serotonin-content. Nbea haploinsufficiency did not affect platelet aggregation and ATP secretion after collagen stimulation, although the platelet shape change was more pronounced. Furthermore, peptidomics revealed that Nbea+/- platelets contain significantly reduced levels of several actin-interacting peptides. Decreased levels were detected of the actin-binding head and rod domain of Talin-1, which are cleavage products of Calpain-2. This is most likely due to increased PKA-mediated phosphorylation of Calpain-2, which renders the enzyme less active. Analysis of other PKA substrates revealed both increased and reduced phosphorylation.

Conclusion

Our results show the pleiotropic effects of alterations in PKA activity due to Nbea haploinsufficiency, highlighting the important function of the AKAP domain in Nbea in regulating and confining PKA activity. Furthermore, these results suggest a role for Nbea in remodeling the actin cytoskeleton of platelets.
Self-assembled β-Sheet Peptide Nanofibers for Efficient Antigen Delivery
Authors: Waku Tomonori , Kitagawa Yuichi , Kawabata Kazufumi , Nishigaki Saki , Kunugi Shigeru , Tanaka Naoki
Published: November 2013

Highly antigen-loaded nanofibers were successfully prepared by the self-assembly of β-sheet forming peptides conjugated with antigenic peptides and cell penetrating peptides (CPP). The nanofibers with lengths of 240 ± 100 nm were taken up more efficiently by murine macrophage-like cells than monomeric CPP-modified antigenic peptides. This self-assembly approach may provide a facile method for creating nanoparticle-based vaccines without complicated multistep procedures.
Synthesis, Structural Analysis, and Reaction of 3-Aza-5-[7]orthocyclophyne
Authors: Igawa Kazunobu , Kawabata Takeshi , Ni Runyan , Tomooka Katsuhiko
Published: November 2013

A newly synthesized 3-aza-5-[7]orthocyclophyne shows labile planar chirality at ambient temperature. Its halogenation reaction efficiently affords well-functionalized 3-aza-[7]orthocyclophenes with stable planar chirality.
Time-Based Competition with Benchmark Effects
Authors: Yang Liu , de Véricourt Francis , Sun Peng
Published: November 2013

We consider a duopoly where firms compete on waiting times in the presence of an industry benchmark. The demand captured by a firm depends on the gap between the firm's offer and the benchmark. We refer to the benchmark effect as the impact of this gap on demand. The formation of the benchmark is endogenous and depends on both firms' choices. When the benchmark is equal to the shorter of the two offered delays, we characterize the unique Pareto optimal Nash equilibrium. Our analysis reveals a stickiness effect in which firms equate their delays at the equilibrium when the benchmark effect is sufficiently strong. When the benchmark corresponds to a weighted average of the two offered delays, we show the existence of a pure Nash equilibrium. In this case, we reveal a reversal effect, in which the market leader, i.e., the firm that offers a shorter delay, becomes the follower when the benchmark effect is sufficiently strong. In both cases, we show that customers' equilibrium waiting times are shorter with the benchmark effect than without it. Our models also capture customers' loss aversion, which, in our setting, states that demand is more sensitive to the gap between the delay and the benchmark when the delay is longer than the benchmark (loss) than when it is shorter (gain). We characterize the impact of this loss aversion on the equilibrium in both settings. Finally, we show numerically that the stickiness and reversal effects still exist when firms also compete on price.
Who Seeks Abortions at or After 20 Weeks?
Authors: Foster Diana Greene , Kimport Katrina
Published: November 2013

Context

Recent years have seen the introduction of state bills seeking to ban abortions after 20 weeks, but little empirical data exist on who is affected when such bans become law.

Methods

As part of a larger study, 272 women who received an abortion at or after 20 weeks’ gestation and 169 who received first‐trimester abortions at 16 facilities across the country in 2008–2010 were interviewed one week after the procedure. Mixed effect logistic regression analyses were used to determine the characteristics associated with later abortion (i.e., at 20 weeks or later). Causes of delay in obtaining abortion were assessed in open‐ and closed‐ended questions; profiles of women who received later abortions were identified through factor analysis.

Results

Women aged 20–24 were more likely than those aged 25–34 to have a later abortion (odds ratio, 2.7), and women who discovered their pregnancy before eight weeks’ gestation were less likely than others to do so (0.1). Later abortion recipients experienced logistical delays (e.g., difficulty finding a provider and raising funds for the procedure and travel costs), which compounded other delays in receiving care. Most women seeking later abortion fit at least one of five profiles: They were raising children alone, were depressed or using illicit substances, were in conflict with a male partner or experiencing domestic violence, had trouble deciding and then had access problems, or were young and nulliparous.

Conclusion

Bans on abortion after 20 weeks will disproportionately affect young women and women with limited financial resources.
Reference values of nuchal translucency thickness in a Brazilian population sample: experience from a single center
Authors: Júnior Edward Araujo , Pires Claudio Rodrigues , Martins Wellington P. , Nardozza Luciano Marcondes Machado , Filho Sebastião Marques Zanforlin
Published: November 2013

Objective: To determine the reference values of nuchal translucency (NT) thickness at 11–14 weeks of gestation in a sample of the Brazilian population.

Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was carried out with singleton gestations and fetuses with a crown-rump length (CRL) of 45–84 mm. NT thickness was performed according to the guidelines of the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF), London, UK. To evaluate the correlation between NT thickness and gestational age (GA), polynomial equations were calculated, with determination coefficient (R2) adjustments, as proposed by Altman-Chitty.

Results: A total of 1420 pregnancies were assessed. The mean of the gestational age was 12.69±0.78 weeks. The mean maternal age was 28.78±6.81 years. The mean NT thickness (mm) for the CRL intervals of 45├50; 50├55; 55├60; 60├65; 65├70; 70├75; 75├80; 80├85 was 1.30±0.74; 1.34±0.60; 1.48±0.48; 1.56±0.68; 1.71±0.67; 1.78±0.69; 1.67±0.43; 1.67±0.58; respectively. The following second-order equation best represented the correlation between NT thickness and GA: NT=–1.2570+0.0765×GA–0.0005×GA2 (R2=0.05).

Conclusion: The reference values for NT thickness were determined for a sample of the Brazilian population. Further studies are required to evaluate the real need for including these values in first-trimester screening for chromosomal defects in Brazil.
New data on the distribution and natural history of the lesser grison (Galictis cuja), hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga), and culpeo (Lycalopex culpaeus) in northwestern Argentina
Authors: Tellaeche Cintia G. , Reppucci Juan I. , Vidal Estela M. Luengos , Lucherini Mauro
Published: November 2013

We present a total of 190 new distribution records of three little-known mammalian carnivores (
A Perspective on Micro-Evo-Devo: Progress and Potential
Authors: Nunes Maria D S , Arif Saad , Schlötterer Christian , McGregor Alistair P
Published: November 2013

The term “micro-evo-devo” refers to the combined study of the genetic and developmental bases of natural variation in populations and the evolutionary forces that have shaped this variation. It thus represents a synthesis of the fields of evolutionary developmental biology and population genetics. As has been pointed out by several others, this synthesis can provide insights into the evolution of organismal form and function that have not been possible within these individual disciplines separately. Despite a number of important successes in micro-evo-devo, however, it appears that evo devo and population genetics remain largely separate spheres of research, limiting their ability to address evolutionary questions. This also risks pushing contemporary evo devo to the fringes of evolutionary biology because it does not describe the causative molecular changes underlying evolution or the evolutionary forces involved. Here we reemphasize the theoretical and practical importance of micro-evo-devo as a strategy for understanding phenotypic evolution, review the key recent insights that it has provided, and present a perspective on both the potential and the remaining challenges of this exciting interdisciplinary field.
Monolithic Lithium Disilicate Full-Contour Crowns Bonded on CAD/CAM Zirconia Complete-Arch Implant Bridges With 3 to 5 Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Pozzi Alessandro , Tallarico Marco , Barlattani Alberto
Published: November 2013

This study was carried on to assess the clinical performance of a novel restorative concept consisting in single monolithic lithium disilicate full-contour crowns bonded on computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) zirconia complete-arch implant bridges, to overcome the drawbacks related to the chipping of porcelain fused to zirconia restorations. Sixteen patients received 18 implant-supported hybrid screw-cement-retained complete-arch restorations, consisting of single monolithic lithium disilicate full-contour crowns bonded on CAD/CAM zirconia frameworks. The restorations were supported by 4–8 implants. All patients were followed up for at least 3 years on function (range 36 to 60 months, mean 49.3 months). Clinical controls were scheduled every 4 months. The outcomes were implant and prosthetic survival and success rates, any complications, patient satisfaction, and soft tissue parameters. No dropouts occurred. The overall implant and prosthesis survival rates were 100%. One of 18 restorations (1 of 236 dental units) showed a chip-off fracture of the veneering ceramic that was polished intraorally without any additional treatment, scoring a cumulative prosthetic success rate of 100%, according to the California Dental Association index. All patients were functionally and esthetically highly satisfied with their restorations. Successful soft tissue parameters were found around all implants. Single monolithic lithium disilicate full-contour crowns, bonded on CAD/CAM screw-retained complete-arch zirconia frameworks, showed favorable preliminary outcomes with medium-term follow-up. However, randomized controlled studies of this technique are required for further conclusive recommendations.
Two-Year Success Rate of Implant-Retained Mandibular Overdentures by Novice General Dentistry Residents
Authors: Malmstrom Hans , Xiao Jin , Romanos Georgios , Ren Yan-Fang
Published: November 2013

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the clinical success and patient satisfaction when dental implant–retained mandibular overdentures are placed and restored by novice general dentistry residents. A total of 50 subjects who were dissatisfied with their mandibular complete dentures were enrolled in the study. Two dental implants were placed in the anterior mandible between the mental foramina by novice general dentistry residents under the direct supervision of the principal investigator. The resident attached the denture to the implants 3 to 4 months later using locator attachments. The implant success rate was determined by measuring bone loss, mobility, pocket probing depth, and gingival and plaque indices. Subjects were asked to complete a satisfaction questionnaire with the prosthesis at 3 months, 1 year, and 2 years after overdenture delivery. A total of 100 implants were placed in the 50 study subjects. Of these, 2 implants were lost in 1 subject, and 1 subject died due to unrelated causes. Of the 48 remaining subjects, 45 have had their implants restored with overdentures. The subjects' overall satisfaction with fit and ability to chew hard foods with their mandibular overdentures improved significantly (P < .05) following the denture attachment to the dental implants. We conclude that novice general dentistry residents can successfully place mandibular implants and restore them with overdentures under direct supervision, subsequently enhancing the subjects' satisfaction with their mandibular dentures.
PREVALENCE OF HERPES SIMPLEX VIRUS TYPE 2 AND RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THIS INFECTION IN WOMEN IN SOUTHERN BRAZIL
Authors: Caldeira Thais Duquia Moraes , Goncalves Carla Vitola , Oliveira Gisele Rodrigues de , Fonseca Tania Vieira da , Goncalves Regina , Amaral Clair Teixeira do , Hora Vanusa Pousada da , Martinez Ana Maria Barral de
Published: November 2013

SUMMARY The herpes simplex virus type 2 (HVS-2) is the most prevalent infection worldwide. It is a cofactor in the acquisition of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and the persistence of human papillomavirus (HPV). This study evaluated the prevalence of HSV-2, using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and associated factors in patients treated at the Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG) and Basic Health Units (BHU) in Rio Grande, Brazil. The observed prevalence of HSV-2 was 15.6%. Among the 302 women studied, 158 had received assistance in BHU and 144 were treated at FURG. The prevalence of HSV-2 in these groups was 10.8% and 20.8%, respectively, RR 1.9 and p = 0.012. Knowledge about the Pap smear, and the presence of lesions showed no association with HSV-2 infection. Multivariate analysis showed that the variable that most influenced the risk of HSV-2 infection was the presence of HIV infection, with a relative risk of 1.9 and p = 0.04. Discussion: Genital ulcers are an important entry point for HIV, and condom use is an important strategy to reduce transmission of HIV and HSV-2.
AN UPWARD TREND IN DNA P16INK4A METHYLATION PATTERN AND HIGH RISK HPV INFECTION ACCORDING TO THE SEVERITY OF THE CERVICAL LESION
Authors: Carestiato Fernanda Nahoum , Afonso Larissa Alves , Moyses Natalia , Almeida Filho Gutemberg Leao , Velarde Luis Guillermo Coca , Cavalcanti Silvia Maria Baeta
Published: November 2013

SUMMARY High-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) infection is necessary but not sufficient for cervical cancer development. Recently, P16INK4A gene silencing through hypermethylation has been proposed as an important cofactor in cervical carcinogenesis due to its tumor suppressor function. We aimed to investigate P16INK4A methylation status in normal and neoplastic epithelia and evaluate an association with HPV infection and genotype. This cross-sectional study was performed with 141 cervical samples from patients attending Hospital Moncorvo Filho, Rio de Janeiro. HPV detection and genotyping were performed through PCR and P16INK4A methylation by nested-methylation specific PCR (MSP). HPV frequency was 62.4% (88/141). The most common HPV were HPV16 (37%), HPV18 (16.3%) and HPV33/45(15.2%). An upward trend was observed concerning P16INK4A methylation and lesion degree: normal epithelia (10.7%), low grade lesions (22.9%), high grade (57.1%) and carcinoma (93.1%) (p < 0.0001). A multivariate analysis was performed to evaluate an association between methylation, age, tobacco exposure, HPV infection and genotyping. A correlation was found concerning methylation with HPV infection (p < 0.0001), hr-HPV (p = 0.01), HSIL (p < 0.0007) and malignant lesions (p < 0.0001). Since viral infection and epigenetic alterations are related to cervical carcinoma, we suggest that P16INK4A methylation profile maybe thoroughly investigated as a biomarker to identify patients at risk of cancer.
HYPOXIC STRESS, HEPATOCYTES AND CACO-2 VIABILITY AND SUSCEPTIBILITY TO Shigella flexneri INVASION
Authors: Lima Camila Barbara Cantalupo , Santos Sania Alves dos , Andrade Junior Dahir Ramos de
Published: November 2013

SUMMARY Inflammation due to Shigella flexneri can cause damage to the colonic mucosa and cell death by necrosis and apoptosis. This bacteria can reach the bloodstream in this way, and the liver through portal veins. Hypoxia is a condition present in many human diseases, and it may induce bacterial translocation from intestinal lumen. We studied the ability of S. flexneri to invade rat hepatocytes and Caco-2 cells both in normoxic and hypoxic microenvironments, as well as morphological and physiological alterations in these cells after infection under hypoxia. We used the primary culture of rat hepatocytes as a model of study. We analyzed the following parameters in normoxic and hypoxic conditions: morphology, cell viability, bacterial recovery and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) released. The results showed that there were fewer bacteria within the Caco-2 cells than in hepatocytes in normoxic and hypoxic conditions. We observed that the higher the multiplicity of infection (MOI) the greater the bacterial recovery in hepatocytes. The hypoxic condition decreased the bacterial recovery in hepatocytes. The cytotoxicity evaluated by LDH released by cells was significantly higher in cells submitted to hypoxia than normoxia. Caco-2 cells in normoxia released 63% more LDH than hepatocytes. LDH increased 164% when hepatocytes were submitted to hypoxia and just 21% when Caco-2 cells were in the same condition. The apoptosis evaluated by Tunel was significantly higher in cells submitted to hypoxia than normoxia. When comparing hypoxic cells, we obtained more apoptotic hepatocytes than apoptotic Caco-2 cells. Concluding our results contribute to a better knowledge of interactions between studied cells and Shigella flexneri. These data may be useful in the future to define strategies to combat this virulent pathogen.
APPLICATION OF 6-NITROCOUMARIN AS A SUBSTRATE FOR THE FLUORESCENT DETECTION OF NITROREDUCTASE ACTIVITY IN Sporothrix schenckii
Authors: Stopiglia Cheila Denise Ottonelli , Carissimi Mariana , Daboit Tatiane Caroline , Stefani Valter , Corbellini Valeriano Antonio , Scroferneker Maria Lucia
Published: November 2013

Introduction Sporothrix schenckii is a thermal dimorphic pathogenic fungus causing a subcutaneous mycosis, sporotrichosis. Nitrocoumarin represents a fluorogenic substrate class where the microbial nitroreductase activity produces several derivatives, already used in several other enzyme assays. The objective of this study was the analysis of 6-nitrocoumarin (6-NC) as a substrate to study the nitroreductase activity in Sporothrix schenckii. Methods Thirty-five samples of S. schenckii were cultivated for seven, 14 and 21 days at 35 °C in a microculture containing 6-nitrocoumarin or 6-aminocoumarin (6-AC) dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide or dimethyl sulfoxide as a negative control, for posterior examination under an epifluorescence microscope. The organic layer of the seven, 14 and 21-day cultures was analyzed by means of direct illumination with 365 nm UV light and by means of elution on G silica gel plate with hexane:ethyl acetate 1:4 unveiled with UV light. Results All of the strains showed the presence of 6-AC (yellow fluorescence) and 6-hydroxylaminocoumarin (blue fluorescence) in thin layer chromatography, which explains the green fluorescence observed in the fungus structure. Conclusion The nitroreductase activity is widely distributed in the S. schenckii complex and 6-NC is a fluorogenic substrate of easy access and applicability for the nitroreductase activity detection.