bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Leucine Residue in the C Terminus of Human Parainfluenza Virus Type 3 Matrix Protein Is Essential for Efficient Virus-Like Particle and Virion Release
Authors: Zhang Guangyuan , Zhang Shengwei , Ding Binbin , Yang Xiaodan , Chen Longyun , Yan Qin , Jiang Yanliang , Zhong Yi , Chen Mingzhou
Published: September 2014

Paramyxovirus particles, like other enveloped virus particles, are formed by budding from membranes of infected cells, and matrix (M) proteins are critical for this process. To identify the M protein important for this process, we have characterized the budding of the human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3) M protein. Our results showed that expression of the HPIV3 M protein alone is sufficient to initiate the release of virus-like particles (VLPs). Electron microscopy analysis confirmed that VLPs are morphologically similar to HPIV3 virions. We identified a leucine (L302) residue within the C terminus of the HPIV3 M protein that is critical for M protein-mediated VLP production by regulating the ubiquitination of the M protein. When L302 was mutated into A302, ubiquitination of M protein was defective, the release of VLPs was abolished, and the membrane binding and budding abilities of M protein were greatly weakened, but the M
L302A
mutant retained oligomerization activity and had a dominant negative effect on M protein-mediated VLP production. Furthermore, treatment with a proteasome inhibitor also inhibited M protein-mediated VLP production and viral budding. Finally, recombinant HPIV3 containing the M
L302A
mutant could not be rescued. These results suggest that L302 acts as a critical regulating signal for the ubiquitination of the HPIV3 M protein and virion release.

IMPORTANCE
Human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3) is an enveloped virus with a nonsegmented negative-strand RNA genome. It can cause severe respiratory tract diseases, such as bronchiolitis, pneumonia, and croup in infants and young children. However, no valid antiviral therapy or vaccine is currently available. Thus, further elucidation of its assembly and budding will be helpful in the development of novel therapeutic approaches. Here, we show that a leucine residue (L302) located at the C terminus of the HPIV3 M protein is essential for efficient production of virus-like particles (VLPs). Furthermore, we found L302 regulated M protein-mediated VLP production via regulation of M protein ubiquitination. Recombinant HPIV3 containing the M
L302A
mutant is growth defective. These findings provide new insight into the critical role of M protein-mediated VLP production and virion release of a residue that does not belong to L domain and may advance our understanding of HPIV3 viral assembly and budding.
A Histidine Residue of the Influenza Virus Hemagglutinin Controls the pH Dependence of the Conformational Change Mediating Membrane Fusion
Authors: Mair Caroline M. , Meyer Tim , Schneider Katjana , Huang Qiang , Veit Michael , Herrmann Andreas
Published: September 2014

The conformational change of the influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein mediating the fusion between the virus envelope and the endosomal membrane was hypothesized to be induced by protonation of specific histidine residues since their pK
a
s match the pHs of late endosomes (pK
a
of ∼6.0). However, such critical key histidine residues remain to be identified. We investigated the highly conserved His184 at the HA1-HA1 interface and His110 at the HA1-HA2 interface of highly pathogenic H5N1 HA as potential pH sensors. By replacing both histidines with different amino acids and analyzing the effect of these mutations on conformational change and fusion, we found that His184, but not His110, plays an essential role in the pH dependence of the conformational change of HA. Computational modeling of the protonated His184 revealed that His184 is central in a conserved interaction network possibly regulating the pH dependence of conformational change via its pK
a
. As the propensity of histidine to get protonated largely depends on its local environment, mutation of residues in the vicinity of histidine may affect its pK
a
. The HA of highly pathogenic H5N1 viruses carries a Glu-to-Arg mutation at position 216 close to His184. By mutation of residue 216 in the highly pathogenic as well as the low pathogenic H5 HA, we observed a significant influence on the pH dependence of conformational change and fusion. These results are in support of a pK
a
-modulating effect of neighboring residues.

IMPORTANCE
The main pathogenic determinant of influenza viruses, the hemagglutinin (HA) protein, triggers a key step of the infection process: the fusion of the virus envelope with the endosomal membrane releasing the viral genome. Whereas essential aspects of the fusion-inducing mechanism of HA at low pH are well understood, the molecular trigger of the pH-dependent conformational change inducing fusion has been unclear. We provide evidence that His184 regulates the pH dependence of the HA conformational change via its pK
a
. Mutations of neighboring residues which may affect the pK
a
of His184 could play an important role in virus adaptation to a specific host. We suggest that mutation of neighboring residue 216, which is present in all highly pathogenic phenotypes of H5N1 influenza virus strains, contributed to the adaptation of these viruses to the human host via its effect on the pK
a
of His184.
Identification of a High-Efficiency Baculovirus DNA Replication Origin That Functions in Insect and Mammalian Cells
Authors: Wu Yueh-Lung , Wu Carol-P , Huang Yu-Hui , Huang Sheng-Ping , Lo Huei-Ru , Chang Hao-Shuo , Lin Pi-Hsiu , Wu Ming-Cheng , Chang Chia-Jung , Chao Yu-Chan
Published: September 2014

The
p143
gene from
Autographa californica
multinucleocapsid nucleopolyhedrovirus (
Ac
MNPV) has been found to increase the expression of luciferase, which is driven by the polyhedrin gene promoter, in a plasmid with virus coinfection. Further study indicated that this is due to the presence of a replication origin (
ori
) in the coding region of this gene. Transient DNA replication assays showed that a specific fragment of the
p143
coding sequence,
p143
-3, underwent virus-dependent DNA replication in
Spodoptera frugiperda
IPLB-Sf-21 (Sf-21) cells. Deletion analysis of the
p143
-3 fragment showed that subfragment
p143
-3.2a contained the essential sequence of this putative
ori
. Sequence analysis of this region revealed a unique distribution of imperfect palindromes with high AT contents. No sequence homology or similarity between
p143
-3.2a and any other known
ori
was detected, suggesting that it is a novel baculovirus
ori
. Further study showed that the
p143
-3.2a
ori
can replicate more efficiently in infected Sf-21 cells than baculovirus homologous regions (
hr
s), the major baculovirus
ori
, or non-
hr ori
s during virus replication. Previously,
hr
on its own was unable to replicate in mammalian cells, and for mammalian viral
ori
s, viral proteins are generally required for their proper replication in host cells. However, the
p143
-3.2a
ori
was, surprisingly, found to function as an efficient
ori
in mammalian cells without the need for any viral proteins. We conclude that
p143
contains a unique sequence that can function as an
ori
to enhance gene expression in not only insect cells but also mammalian cells.

IMPORTANCE
Baculovirus DNA replication relies on both
hr
and non-
hr ori
s; however, so far very little is known about the latter
ori
s. Here we have identified a new non-
hr ori
, the
p143 ori
, which resides in the coding region of
p143
. By developing a novel DNA replication-enhanced reporter system, we have identified and located the core region required for the
p143 ori
. This
ori
contains a large number of imperfect inverted repeats and is the most active
ori
in the viral genome during virus infection in insect cells. We also found that it is a unique
ori
that can replicate in mammalian cells without the assistance of baculovirus gene products. The identification of this
ori
should contribute to a better understanding of baculovirus DNA replication. Also, this
ori
is very useful in assisting with gene expression in mammalian cells.
Induction of Viral, 7-Methyl-Guanosine Cap-Independent Translation and Oncolysis by Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Interacting Kinase-Mediated Effects on the Serine/Arginine-Rich Protein Kinase
Authors: Brown Michael C. , Bryant Jeffrey D. , Dobrikova Elena Y. , Shveygert Mayya , Bradrick Shelton S. , Chandramohan Vidyalakshmi , Bigner Darell D. , Gromeier Matthias
Published: September 2014

Protein synthesis, the most energy-consuming process in cells, responds to changing physiologic priorities, e.g., upon mitogen- or stress-induced adaptations signaled through the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). The prevailing status of protein synthesis machinery is a viral pathogenesis factor, particularly for plus-strand RNA viruses, where immediate translation of incoming viral RNAs shapes host-virus interactions. In this study, we unraveled signaling pathways centered on the ERK1/2 and p38α MAPK-interacting kinases MNK1/2 and their role in controlling 7-methyl-guanosine (m
7
G) “cap”-independent translation at enterovirus type 1 internal ribosomal entry sites (IRESs). Activation of Raf-MEK-ERK1/2 signals induced viral IRES-mediated translation in a manner dependent on MNK1/2. This effect was not due to MNK's known functions as eukaryotic initiation factor (eIF) 4G binding partner or eIF4E(S209) kinase. Rather, MNK catalytic activity enabled viral IRES-mediated translation/host cell cytotoxicity through negative regulation of the Ser/Arg (SR)-rich protein kinase (SRPK). Our investigations suggest that SRPK activity is a major determinant of type 1 IRES competency, host cell cytotoxicity, and viral proliferation in infected cells.

IMPORTANCE
We are targeting unfettered enterovirus IRES activity in cancer with PVSRIPO, the type 1 live-attenuated poliovirus (PV) (Sabin) vaccine containing a human rhinovirus type 2 (HRV2) IRES. A phase I clinical trial of PVSRIPO with intratumoral inoculation in patients with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) is showing early promise. Viral translation proficiency in infected GBM cells is a core requirement for the antineoplastic efficacy of PVSRIPO. Therefore, it is critically important to understand the mechanisms controlling viral cap-independent translation in infected host cells.
On the Laws of Virus Spread through Cell Populations
Authors: Wodarz Dominik , Chan Chi N. , Trinité Benjamin , Komarova Natalia L. , Levy David N.
Published: September 2014

The dynamics of viral infections have been investigated extensively, often with a combination of experimental and mathematical approaches. Mathematical descriptions of virus spread through cell populations are well established in the literature and have yielded important insights, yet the formulation of certain fundamental aspects of virus dynamics models remains uncertain and untested. Here, we investigate the process of infection and, in particular, the effect of varying the target cell population size on the number of productively infected cells generated. Using anin vitrosingle-round HIV-1 infection system, we find that the established modeling framework cannot accurately fit the data. If the model is fit to data with the lowest number of cells and is used to predict data generated with larger cell populations, the model significantly overestimates the number of productively infected cells generated. Interestingly, this deviation becomes stronger under experimental conditions that promote mixing of cells and viruses. The reason for the deviation is that the standard model makes certain oversimplifying assumptions about the fate of viruses that fail to find a cell in their immediate proximity. We derive from stochastic processes a different model that assumes simultaneous access of the virus to multiple target cells. In this scenario, if no cell is available to the virus at its location, it has a chance to interact with other cells, a process that can be promoted by mixing of the populations. This model can accurately fit the experimental data and suggests a new interpretation of mass action in virus dynamics models.

IMPORTANCEUnderstanding the principles of virus growth through cell populations is of fundamental importance to virology. It helps us make informed decisions about intervention strategies aimed at preventing virus growth, such as drug treatment or vaccination approaches, e.g., in HIV infection, yet considerable uncertainty remains in this respect. An important variable in this context is the number of susceptible cells available for virus replication. How does the number of susceptible cells influence the growth potential of the virus? Besides the importance of such information for clinical responses, a thorough understanding of this is also important for the prediction of virus levels in patients and the estimation of crucial patient parameters through the use of mathematical models. This paper investigates the relationship between target cell availability and the virus growth potential with a combination of experimental and mathematical approaches and provides significant new insights.
Chemical Induction of Unfolded Protein Response Enhances Cancer Cell Killing through Lytic Virus Infection
Authors: Prasad Vibhu , Suomalainen Maarit , Pennauer Mirjam , Yakimovich Artur , Andriasyan Vardan , Hemmi Silvio , Greber Urs F.
Published: September 2014

Cancer cells are susceptible to oncolytic viruses, albeit variably. Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are widely used oncolytic agents that have been engineered to produce progeny within the tumor and elicit bystander effects. We searched for host factors enhancing bystander effects and conducted a targeted RNA interference screen against guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) of small GTPases. We show that the unfolded protein response (UPR), which is readily inducible in aggressive tumor cells, enhances melanoma or epithelial cancer cell killing upon HAdV infection. UPR was triggered by knockdown of Golgi-specific brefeldin A-resistant guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (GBF-1) or the GBF-1 inhibitor golgicide A (GCA) and stimulated HAdV infection. GBF-1 is a GEF for ADP ribosylation factors (Arfs) regulating endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-to-Golgi apparatus and intra-Golgi apparatus membrane transport. Cells treated with GCA enhanced HAdV-induced cytopathic effects in epithelial and melanoma cancer cells but not normal cells, if the drug was applied several hours prior to HAdV inoculation. This was shown by real-time label-free impedance measurements using the xCELLigence system. GCA-treated cells contained fewer incoming HAdVs than control cells, but GCA treatment boosted HAdV titers and spreading in cancer cells. GCA enhanced viral gene expression or transgene expression from the cytomegalovirus promoter of B- or C-species HAdVs but did not enhance viral early region 1A (E1A) expression in uninfected cell lines or cells transfected with plasmid reporter DNA. The UPR-enhanced cell killing required the nuclease activity of the UPR sensor inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE-1) and X box binding protein 1 (XBP-1), which alleviate ER stress. The collective results show that chemical UPR induction and viruses boost tumor cell killing by enhancing oncolytic viral efficacy.

IMPORTANCE
Cancer is difficult to combat. A wide range of oncolytic viruses show promise for killing cancer cells, yet the efficacy of oncolytic killing is low. We searched for host factors enhancing adenovirus cancer cell killing and found that the knockdown of Golgi-specific brefeldin A-resistant guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1 (GBF-1) or chemical inhibition of GBF-1 enhanced adenovirus infection by triggering the IRE-1/XBP-1 branch of the unfolded protein response (UPR). IRE-1/XBP-1 promote cell survival and enhanced the levels of the adenoviral immediate early gene product E1A, virus spreading, and killing of cancer cells. Aggressive tumor cells depend on a readily inducible UPR and, hence, present prime targets for a combined strategy involving adenoviruses and small chemicals inducing UPR.
Suspected coexistent osteoporosis and osteomalacia with atraumatic bilateral neck of femur fractures in a 53-year-old man without apparent risk factors
Authors: De Marchi Joshua , Bajwa Raazi , Duggan Sinead Noelle , Magill Paul
Published: September 2014

Atraumatic bilateral hip fractures in the relatively young are exceedingly rare. In this case report, we present one such patient diagnosed by MRI and treated with bilateral hip screws. Subsequent investigations revealed severe osteoporosis and primary 25-hyroxyvitamin D (25OHD) deficiency at a level suggestive of concurrent osteomalacia.
Multi-institution case–control and cohort study of risk factors for the development and mortality ofClostridium difficileinfections in Japan
Authors: Takahashi Masahiko , Mori Nobuaki , Bito Seiji
Published: September 2014

Objective

To examine risk factors forClostridium difficileinfection (CDI) morbidity and mortality in Japan.

Design

Multimethod investigation including a case–control study and cohort study.

Setting

47 participating facilities of the National Hospital Organization (NHO).

Participants

1026 patients with CDI and 878 patients in the control group over the age of 18 years admitted to the subject NHO facilities from November 2010 to October 2011.

Main outcome measures

In a case–control study, we identify risk factors for CDI development. Next, in a cohort study, we identify risk factors for all-cause mortality within 30 days following CDI onset.

Results

A total of 1026 cases of CDI meeting the definitions of this investigation were identified, encompassing 878 patients at 42 of the 47 subject facilities. In the case–control study, we identified, compared with no antibiotics use, use of first-generation and second-generation cephem antibiotics (OR 1.44; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.87), use of third-generation and fourth-generation cephem antibiotics (OR 1.86; 95% CI 1.48 to 2.33) and use of carbapenem antibiotics (OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.44 to 2.42) the risk factors for CDI development. However, use of penicillin was not identified as a risk factor. In the cohort study, sufficient data for analysis was available for 924 CDI cases; 102 of them (11.0%) resulted in death within 30 days of CDI onset. Compared with no anti-CDI drug use, use of vancomycin was associated with reduced risk of mortality (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.25 to 0.75) whereas metronidazole was not.

Conclusions

The findings mirror those of previous studies from Europe and North America, identifying the administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics as a risk factor for CDI development. The use of vancomycin is associated with a decreased risk of mortality.
Variation in the recording of common health conditions in routine hospital data: study using linked survey and administrative data in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Lujic Sanja , Watson Diane E , Randall Deborah A , Simpson Judy M , Jorm Louisa R
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To investigate the nature and potential implications of under-reporting of morbidity information in administrative hospital data.

Setting and participants

Retrospective analysis of linked self-report and administrative hospital data for 32 832 participants in the large-scale cohort study (45 and Up Study), who joined the study from 2006 to 2009 and who were admitted to 313 hospitals in New South Wales, Australia, for at least an overnight stay, up to a year prior to study entry.

Outcome measures

Agreement between self-report and recording of six morbidities in administrative hospital data, and between-hospital variation and predictors of positive agreement between the two data sources.

Results

Agreement between data sources was good for diabetes (κ=0.79); moderate for smoking (κ=0.59); fair for heart disease, stroke and hypertension (κ=0.40, κ=0.30 and κ =0.24, respectively); and poor for obesity (κ=0.09), indicating that a large number of individuals with self-reported morbidities did not have a corresponding diagnosis coded in their hospital records. Significant between-hospital variation was found (ranging from 8% of unexplained variation for diabetes to 22% for heart disease), with higher agreement in public and large hospitals, and hospitals with greater depth of coding.

Conclusions

The recording of six common health conditions in administrative hospital data is highly variable, and for some conditions, very poor. To support more valid performance comparisons, it is important to stratify or control for factors that predict the completeness of recording, including hospital depth of coding and hospital type (public/private), and to increase efforts to standardise recording across hospitals. Studies using these conditions for risk adjustment should also be cautious of their use in smaller hospitals.
Assessing the effectiveness of 3 months day and night home closed-loop insulin delivery in adults with suboptimally controlled type 1 diabetes: a randomised crossover study protocol
Authors: Leelarathna Lalantha , Dellweg Sibylle , Mader Julia K , Barnard Katharine , Benesch Carsten , Ellmerer Martin , Heinemann Lutz , Kojzar Harald , Thabit Hood , Wilinska Malgorzata E , Wysocki Tim , Pieber Thomas R , Arnolds Sabine , Evans Mark L , Hovorka Roman
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Despite therapeutic advances, many people with type 1 diabetes are still unable to achieve optimal glycaemic control, limited by the occurrence of hypoglycaemia. The objective of the present study is to determine the effectiveness of day and night home closed-loop over the medium term compared with sensor-augmented pump therapy in adults with type 1 diabetes and suboptimal glycaemic control.

Methods and analysis

The study will adopt an open label, three-centre, multinational, randomised, two-period crossover study design comparing automated closed-loop glucose control with sensor augmented insulin pump therapy. The study will aim for 30 completed participants. Eligible participants will be adults (≥18 years) with type 1 diabetes treated with insulin pump therapy and suboptimal glycaemic control (glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) ≥7.5% (58 mmol/mmol) and ≤10% (86 mmol/mmol)). Following a 4-week optimisation period, participants will undergo a 3-month use of automated closed-loop insulin delivery and sensor-augmented pump therapy, with a 4–6 week washout period in between. The order of the interventions will be random. All analysis will be conducted on an intention to treat basis. The primary outcome is the time spent in the target glucose range from 3.9 to 10.0 mmol/L based on continuous glucose monitoring levels during the 3 months free living phase. Secondary outcomes include HbA1c changes; mean glucose and time spent above and below target glucose levels. Further, participants will be invited at baseline, midpoint and study end to participate in semistructured interviews and complete questionnaires to explore usability and acceptance of the technology, impact on quality of life and fear of hypoglycaemia.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been obtained at all sites. Before screening, all participants will be provided with oral and written information about the trial. The study will be disseminated by peer-review publications and conference presentations.

Trial registration number

NCT01961622 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Improving customer experience through branding and technology
Authors: Grossart Dawn , Greenshaw John
Published: September 2014

How often do you review your practice systems with a view to enhancing clients’ experiences and improving client loyalty? This article considers how better use of telecoms can help strengthen the practice brand and hence its reputation.
Little nippers
Authors: Roger Paul
Published: September 2014

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved.

In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Little nippers’, was submitted and is discussed by Paul Roger. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Follow‐up fiasco’, which was published in the July/August issue of In Practice, appears on page 431.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Managing muscle disease in horses
Authors: Naylor Rosie
Published: September 2014

Since the early descriptions of ‘Monday morning disease’ (exertional rhabdomyolysis), skeletal muscle disease has long been recognised as a significant problem in the horse. Epidemiological studies have suggested that muscle problems affect up to 6.7 per cent of racing thoroughbreds (McGowan and others 2002) and in some other breeds up to 66 per cent of the population are affected (Valentine and others 2001). Skeletal muscle comprises up to 55 per cent of the body mass of athletic horses (Kearns and others 2002) and has a key role in the metabolism of an individual. It is therefore not surprising that disease processes affecting this organ can have a major impact on the welfare and performance of a horse. This article discusses some common muscle disorders of the horse and ways to manage and treat them.
Differential diagnoses and treatment of cervical syndrome or neck pain
Authors: Trevail Raquel , Behr Sebastien
Published: September 2014

Neck pain is commonly seen in small animal practice. Pain may arise from the nervous system itself or its surrounding structures. Identification of the origin of pain determines the diagnostic tests required in order to reach a diagnosis and decide on the right therapy. This article discusses differential diagnoses, management and treatment of some common cervical and neck conditions in small animals.
An introduction to choosing and caring for an endoscope
Authors: McGrotty Yvonne , Dickson Laura
Published: September 2014

Both flexible and rigid endoscopes are widely available in small animal veterinary practice and can be used to perform a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Choosing an endoscope can appear a challenge; how do you know which endoscope is best when you haven't ever purchased or used one before? Cleaning and caring for an endoscope can also be daunting and, if performed incorrectly, can limit the working life of the endoscope and cause expensive or irreparable damage. The aim of this article is to introduce the reader to the various types of endoscope available, to advise on the most appropriate endoscope for various clinical procedures and to provide guidelines on maintenance of endoscopy equipment, which will ensure it remains in good working order.
Reduced cerebrovascular reserve is associated with an increased risk of postoperative ischemic lesions during carotid artery stenting
Authors: Koyanagi Masaomi , Yoshida Kazumichi , Kurosaki Yoshitaka , Sadamasa Nobutake , Narumi Osamu , Sato Tsukasa , Chin Masaki , Handa Akira , Yamagata Sen , Miyamoto Susumu
Published: September 2014

Background

Reduced cerebrovascular reserve (CVR) is associated with increased risk of ischemic events in carotid steno-occlusive diseases.

Objective

To determine whether pretreatment CVR can predict postoperative ischemic lesions after carotid artery stenting (CAS) by retrospective analysis.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 46 patients (42 men; mean age 74.2±8.3 years) who underwent CAS and preprocedural cerebral blood flow measurement by quantitative single-photon emission CT. Ischemic lesions were evaluated by diffusion-weighted image (DWI) within 72 h after the intervention. We also evaluated plaque characteristics using black-blood MR plaque imaging.

Results

New ipsilateral DWI-positive lesions were found in 11 cases (23.9%). Patients were classified into two groups based on the presence or absence of new DWI-positive lesions, and no significant differences in characteristics were found between the DWI-positive and DWI-negative groups, except for age and CVR of the ipsilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory. The DWI-positive group was significantly older than the DWI-negative group (79.7±4.1 vs 72.5±8.6 years; p=0.0085) and had lower average regional CVR (1.4±18.2% vs 22.4±25.8%; p=0.016). MR plaque imaging showed no significant difference in relative overall plaque MR signal intensity between the two groups (1.53±0.37 vs 1.34±0.26; p=0.113). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, lower CVR of the ipsilateral MCA territory (<11%) was the only independent risk factor for new ischemic lesions following CAS (OR=6.99; 95% CI 1.17 to 41.80; p=0.033).

Conclusions

Impaired pretreatment CVR was associated with increased incidence of new infarction after CAS.
Diagnostic angiography skill acquisition with a secondary curve catheter: phase 2 of a curriculum-based endovascular simulation program
Authors: Spiotta Alejandro M , Kellogg Ryan T , Vargas Jan , Chaudry M Imran , Turk Aquilla S , Turner Raymond D
Published: September 2014

Background

We have previously reported the efficacy of a simulator-based training paradigm for residents in neurosurgery with little or no prior experience in diagnostic cerebral angiography with straightfoward arch anatomy. This study investigates the utility of a simulation-based training curriculum for the acquisition of skills employing a secondary curve catheter to navigate more complex arch anatomy.

Methods

Residents at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) with moderate exposure to diagnostic angiography enrolled into a standardized Institutional Review Board-approved training protocol using SimSuite Compass and Simbionix simulators. The task involved (in order) forming the Simmons catheter in the left subclavian artery and then selecting the brachiocephalic, left common carotid and left vertebral arteries.

Results

All participants improved their total time to complete the task over the course from the first to last trial. Each milestone within the overall task also demonstrated an improvement across trials for each participant. Following the hands-on experience, participants’ rating of their knowledge of arch anatomy and vessel selection technique improved to that between competence and high competence (values of 3.3±0.49 (p<0.005) and 3.1±0.38 (p<0.01), respectively). Comfort with use of the Simmons catheter improved to a value of 2.9±0.38 (p<0.001), between an experienced learner and competence. Participants rated the usefulness of the training environment as very high (4.1±0.90 out of maximum 5).

Conclusions

Residents became more proficient at vessel selection in a type II and bovine arch over a relatively compressed time period, with both objective and subjective data demonstrating acquisition of skill sets and increased confidence.
Imaging and management of greater trochanteric pain syndrome
Authors: Chowdhury Rajat , Naaseri Sahar , Lee Justin , Rajeswaran Gajan
Published: September 2014

Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is a commonly diagnosed regional pain syndrome with a wide spectrum of aetiologies, reflecting the anatomy of the structures outside the hip joint capsule. There are five muscle tendons that insert on to the greater trochanter and three bursae in the region of the greater trochanter. The term GTPS includes tendinopathies, tendinous tears, bursal inflammation and effusion. There are a range of treatments and therapies depending on the specific diagnosis and severity of the condition. Many patients with GTPS can be successfully managed conservatively with weight loss and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Patients suffering from more chronic pain can receive varying degrees of symptomatic relief with lateral hip corticosteroid and local anaesthetic injections. More severe refractory cases of GTPS can be treated with surgical intervention. It is therefore important to make the correct diagnosis to ensure that appropriate management can be implemented. The clinical features of GTPS however are often non-specific because common conditions such as lumbar radicular pain and hip joint osteoarthritis can present with an almost identical form of lateral hip pain. The various diagnostic imaging modalities have particular strengths and weaknesses with ultrasound being the best first-line investigation due to its availability, low cost, dynamic nature and ability to guide treatments such as steroid injections. MRI can be very helpful in the further investigation of patients in whom there is diagnostic uncertainty as to the cause of lateral hip pain and in whom specialist orthopaedic referral is being considered.
Effects of winter military training on energy balance, whole-body protein balance, muscle damage, soreness, and physical performance
Authors: Margolis Lee M. , Murphy Nancy E. , Martini Svein , Spitz Marissa G. , Thrane Ingjerd , McGraw Susan M. , Blatny Janet-Martha , Castellani John W. , Rood Jennifer C. , Young Andrew J. , Montain Scott J. , Gundersen Yngvar , Pasiakos Stefan M.
Published: September 2014

Physiological consequences of winter military operations are not well described. This study examined Norwegian soldiers (n = 21 males) participating in a physically demanding winter training program to evaluate whether short-term military training alters energy and whole-body protein balance, muscle damage, soreness, and performance. Energy expenditure (D218O) and intake were measured daily, and postabsorptive whole-body protein turnover ([15N]-glycine), muscle damage, soreness, and performance (vertical jump) were assessed at baseline, following a 4-day, military task training phase (MTT) and after a 3-day, 54-km ski march (SKI). Energy intake (kcal·day−1) increased (P < 0.01) from (mean ± SD (95% confidence interval)) 3098 ± 236 (2985, 3212) during MTT to 3461 ± 586 (3178, 3743) during SKI, while protein (g·kg−1·day−1) intake remained constant (MTT, 1.59 ± 0.33 (1.51, 1.66); and SKI, 1.71 ± 0.55 (1.58, 1.85)). Energy expenditure increased (P < 0.05) during SKI (6851 ± 562 (6580, 7122)) compared with MTT (5480 ± 389 (5293, 5668)) and exceeded energy intake. Protein flux, synthesis, and breakdown were all increased (P < 0.05) 24%, 18%, and 27%, respectively, during SKI compared with baseline and MTT. Whole-body protein balance was lower (P < 0.05) during SKI (–1.41 ± 1.11 (–1.98, –0.84) g·kg−1·10 h) than MTT and baseline. Muscle damage and soreness increased and performance decreased progressively (P < 0.05). The physiological consequences observed during short-term winter military training provide the basis for future studies to evaluate nutritional strategies that attenuate protein loss and sustain performance during severe energy deficits.
Retinol dehydrogenases: Membrane-bound enzymes for the visual function
Authors: Lhor Mustapha , Salesse Christian
Published: September 2014

Retinoid metabolism is important for many physiological functions, such as differenciation, growth, and vision. In the visual context, after the absorption of light in rod photoreceptors by the visual pigment rhodopsin, 11-cis retinal is isomerized to all-trans retinal. This retinoid subsequently undergoes a series of modifications during the visual cycle through a cascade of reactions occurring in photoreceptors and in the retinal pigment epithelium. Retinol dehydrogenases (RDHs) are enzymes responsible for crucial steps of this visual cycle. They belong to a large family of proteins designated as short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases. The structure of these RDHs has been predicted using modern bioinformatics tools, which allowed to propose models with similar structures including a common Rossman fold. These enzymes undergo oxidoreduction reactions, whose direction is dictated by the preference and concentration of their individual cofactor (NAD(H)/NADP(H)). This review presents the current state of knowledge on functional and structural features of RDHs involved in the visual cycle as well as knockout models. RDHs are described as integral or peripheral enzymes. A topology model of the membrane binding of these RDHs via their N- and (or) C-terminal domain has been proposed on the basis of their individual properties. Membrane binding is a crucial issue for these enzymes because of the high hydrophobicity of their retinoid substrates.
Microfacies and microstructures of subglacial and deglacial sediments from the Pingualuit Crater Lake (Ungava Peninsula, Canada)
Authors: Guyard Hervé , Francus Pierre , St-Onge Guillaume , Hausmann Sonja , Pienitz Reinhard
Published: September 2014

The Pingualuit Crater (Ungava Peninsula, Canada) hosts a freshwater basin in which a subglacial lake subsisted under the Laurentide Ice Sheet during the last glacial period. Microfacies and microstructures of a 9 m long sediment core are presented to discuss the depositional environment of deformed glacigenic and postglacial sequences deposited in the deep basin of the lake. Five distinct lithofacies are characterized. The range of glacial microstructures observed in the lower facies (Facies IV) reveals that high stress level occurred outside the crater during the formation of this diamicton released by the ablation of debris-rich basal glacier ice in an ice contact subglacial–proglacial lacustrine environment. The overlying subaqueous and glacigenic sediment gravity flow (Facies IIIb) is associated with a temporary absence of ice cover over the coring site, and likely results from the efflux plume and the associated suspension sedimentation produced during the retreat of the ice margin. Then, the finely laminated (<1–2 mm) and normally graded meltout silts (Facies IIIa) containing dropstones and load cast features suggest underflows in an unstable ice marginal lacustrine environment hydrologically separated from the retreating glacier but containing floating glacial ice blocks. Microstructures within occasional diamictic layers indicate sudden meltout deposits from these drifting ice blocks. The above finer-grained sediments (Facies Ib) lack typical glacial microstructures, marking the onset of postglacial organic sedimentation. These postglacial sediments are affected by post-depositional deformations due to an overlying rotational slide (Facies II) that may have perturbed the associated environmental record.
Will tree species experience increased frost damage due to climate change because of changes in leaf phenology?
Authors: Morin Xavier , Chuine Isabelle
Published: September 2014

In temperate zones, trees tend to unfold their leaves earlier due to climate warming. However, changes in the timing of the bud development also affect the dynamics of the cold-hardening process, which may increase frost injuries endured by trees because new leaves unfold at a period when frost events can still occur. This possible increase in frost damage in response to climate change is known as the “frost-damage hypothesis”. In this study, we have tested this hypothesis by forcing a process-based frost-injury model with process-based phenological models for 22 North American species with two Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change storylines. Using a simplified parameterization of the frost-injury model, we found that risk of frost injury changed with climate change for all species. In fact, frost injury decreased for the vast majority of the species, but this trend varied across species and throughout each species’ distribution. We further explored the variability of response among species using their phenological and geographic characteristics. The interspecific trends depicted here show what could be the implications of climate change on the ecophysiology of boreal and temperate trees and highlight the importance of process-based models in studying the complexity of long-term impacts of climate change on species biology.
Temporal analysis of the effect of extruded flaxseed on the swine gut microbiota
Authors: Holman Devin B. , Baurhoo Bushansingh , Chénier Martin R.
Published: September 2014

Flaxseed is a rich source of α-linolenic acid, an essential ω-3 fatty acid reported to have beneficial health effects in humans. Feeding swine a diet supplemented with flaxseed has been found to enrich pork products with ω-3 fatty acids. However, the effect of flaxseed supplementation on the swine gut microbiota has not been assessed to date. The purpose of this study was to investigate if extruded flaxseed has any impact on the bacterial and archaeal microbiota in the feces of growing–finishing pigs over a 51-day period, using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) and real-time PCR. Bacterial DGGE profile analysis revealed major temporal shifts in the bacterial microbiota with only minor ones related to diet. The archaeal microbiota was significantly less diverse than that of Bacteria. The majority of bacterial DGGE bands sequenced belonged to the Firmicutes phylum while the archaeal DGGE bands were found to consist of only 2 species, Methanobrevibacter smithii and Methanosphaera stadtmanae. The abundance of Bacteroidetes decreased significantly from day 0 to day 21 in all diet groups while the abundance of Firmicutes was relatively stable across all diet cohorts and sampling times. There was also no significant correlation between pig mass and the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes. While the addition of extruded flaxseed to the feed of growing–finishing pigs was beneficial for improving ω-3 fatty acid content of pork, it had no detectable impact on the fecal bacterial and archaeal microbiota, suggesting that extruded flaxseed may be used to improve meat quality without adverse effect on the swine gut microbiota or animal performance.
The interaction effects on the adsorption properties of an alternating copolymer chain at liquid–liquid interface
Authors: Khattari Z. , Hamasha S.
Published: September 2014

Analytical and numerical methods have been combined to investigate the effect of monomers-interfacial interactions on the behavior of a single alternating polymer chain at liquid–liquid interface. The exact Green's function of a Gaussian copolymer chain at attractive penetrable interface has been employed to determine monomer distribution profiles ρ(z), mean-square end-to-end distance 〈R2(z)〉 and the interfacial tension Δγ of the alternating copolymer chain. A comparison between the diblock and alternating copolymer chain is presented. Our model shows that, the alternating copolymer adsorbs more readily than the diblock copolymer at liquid–liquid interface. Also, these copolymers are able to reduce the interfacial tension when presented at the interface.
Symmetric ribbon disks
Authors: Aceto Paolo
Published: September 2014

We study the ribbon disks that arise from a symmetric union presentation of a ribbon knot. A natural notion of symmetric ribbon number rS(K) is introduced and compared with the classical ribbon number r(K). We show that the difference rS(K) - r(K) can be arbitrarily large by constructing an infinite family of ribbon knots Kn such that r(Kn) = 2 and rS(Kn) > n. The proof is based on a particularly simple description of symmetric unions in terms of certain band diagrams which leads to an upper bound for the Heegaard genus of their branched double covers.
ELKO and Dirac spinors seen from torsion
Authors: Fabbri Luca , Vignolo Stefano
Published: September 2014

In this paper, the recently-introduced ELKO and the well-known Dirac spinor fields will be compared. However, instead of comparing them under the point of view of their algebraic properties or their dynamical features, we will proceed by investigating the analogies and similarities in terms of their geometrical character viewed from the perspective of torsion. The paper will be concluded by sketching some consequences for the application to cosmology and particle physics.
Longitudinal electron scattering form factors for 54,56Fe
Authors: Salman A. D. , Kadhim D. R.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, inelastic longitudinal electron scattering form factors for C2 transition have been studied in 54 Fe and 56 Fe with the aid of shell model calculations. The GX1 effective interaction for the fp-shell is used with the nucleon–nucleon realistic interaction Michigan three-range Yukawa and Modified surface delta interaction as a two-body interactions. The core polarization effects is taken into account through the first-order perturbation theory with the effective charge, which is taken to the proton and the neutron. The effective charge along with the core effects up to 6 ℏw enhanced the calculation very well and improving good agreement with the experimental data.
Application of hyperspherical harmonics expansion method to the low-lying bound S-states of exotic two-muon three-body systems
Authors: Khan Md. Abdul
Published: September 2014

In this paper, energies of the low-lying bound S-states (L = 0) of exotic three-body systems, consisting a nuclear core of charge +Ze (Z being atomic number of the core) and two negatively charged valence muons, have been calculated by hyperspherical harmonics expansion method (HHEM). The three-body Schrödinger equation is solved assuming purely Coulomb interaction among the binary pairs of the three-body systems XZ+μ-μ-for Z = 1 to 54. Convergence pattern of the energies have been checked with respect to the increasing number of partial waves Λmax. For available computer facilities, calculations are feasible up to Λmax= 28 partial waves, however, calculation for still higher partial waves have been achieved through an appropriate extrapolation scheme. The dependence of bound state energies has been checked against increasing nuclear charge Z and finally, the calculated energies have been compared with the ones of the literature.
A theoretical study of energy spectra and transition probabilities of 200–204Hg isotopes in transitional region of IBM
Authors: Sabri H.
Published: September 2014

In this paper, by using the SO(6) representation of eigenstates and transitional Interacting Boson Model (IBM) Hamiltonian, the evolution from prolate to oblate shapes along the chain of Hg isotopes is studied. Parameter-free (up to overall scale factors) predictions for spectra and B(E2) transition rates are found to be in good agreement with experimental data for 200–204 Hg isotopes which are supported to be located in this transitional region.
UNDERSTANDING THE CORRELATION OF THE PROPERTIES OF HUMAN MOVEMENT PATTERNS
Authors: MAITI RAJIB RANJAN , MALLYA ARUN , MUKHERJEE ANIMESH , GANGULY NILOY
Published: September 2014

Mobility of humans plays an important role in shaping the performance of various services in mobile and location dependent networks. In this paper, we amalgamate and summarize the parameters reported in various trace analyses, and explore the inter-dependencies among the parameters using a layered approach. We then identify using an experimental setup (a) several roadblocks in generating an intended synthesis model, (b) the changes in the mobility patterns with variation in inputs (e.g., the underlying map), and (c) the changes in efficiency of a given service (here we have considered simple broadcasting) with change in the input parameters. Interestingly, we note that the efficiency of the service does not necessarily depend on the mobility pattern and one needs to be extremely careful before drawing a direct correlation between the two.