bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single Genome Sequencing of HIV-1 Gag and Protease Resistance Mutations at Virologic Failure during the Ok04 Trial of Simplified versus Standard Maintenance Therapy
Authors: McKinnon John E , Delgado Rafael , Pulido Federico , Shao Wei , Arribas Jose R , Mellors John W
Published: June 2011

Background

Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir (LPV/RTV) alone has been evaluated as simplified maintenance therapy for HIV-1 infection, but there are concerns about greater potential for emergence of protease inhibitor (PI) resistance. The OK04 trial evaluated maintenance therapy with LPV/RTV alone versus standard therapy (ST) with two NRTIs plus LPV/RTV in 205 patients, of whom 15 had virological rebound by week 48 (11 versus 4 patients, respectively). We developed a single genome sequencing (SGS) assay of HIV-1 gag and protease to assess the emergence of low frequency drug-resistant variants during virological rebound.

Methods

Plasma samples from 15 subjects at virological rebound were analysed by SGS of HIV-1 gag and protease genes. A total of 45 SGS sequences were planned per sample, providing 90% power to detect variants comprising >5% of the virus population.

Results

Overall, 521 single sequences obtained from 13 patients (range 4–48 sequences/patient) revealed similar frequencies of major protease resistance mutations in samples from the LPV/RTV alone (3/11) and ST (3/4) arms ( P=0.10), with a median number of minor protease resistance mutations of 3.0 versus 3.5, respectively ( P=0.23). Median number of gag PI resistance mutations were similar between the LPV/RTV alone and ST arms at cleavage sites (3.0 versus 2.5; P=0.83), non-cleavage sites (21 versus 16.5; P=0.71) and the transframe protein-p6 pol region cleavage sites (4.0 versus 3.0; P=0.6).

Conclusions

Although more subjects with simplified maintenance therapy with LPV/RTV alone had virological rebound compared to the ST arm, this was not associated with more frequent emergence of variants encoding PI resistance mutations in gag or protease detected by SGS.
Clinical characteristics and predictors of mortality in hospitalized HIV-infected Nigerians
Authors: Agaba Patricia Aladi , Digin Eunice , Makai Rahila , Apena Labake , Agbaji Oche O , Idoko John A , Murphy Rob , Kanki Phyllis
Published: June 2011

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) is a chief cause of death in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, the clinical characteristics and predictors of mortality among hospitalized HIV infected adult Nigerians are reported. Methodology: The records of 354 patients were reviewed for demographic and clinical characteristics. Predictors of mortality using logistic regression in a retrospective study were also reviewed. Results: A total of 109 (30.8%) males and 245 (69.2%) females participated in the study. The mean age of all participants was 35 ± 8 years. Median baseline CD4 cell counts and viral load were 91 cells/mm³ and 63,438 copies/ml respectively. There was a total of 123 (34.8%) deaths while 231 (65.2%) patients were discharged home. Tuberculosis (TB) was the most common diagnosis on admission as well as the leading cause of death. Among all subjects, only male gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.63-8.29); CD4 cell count ≤ 200 cells/mm3 (AOR 5.28, 95% CI: 2.99-9.31); length of hospital stay < 3 days (AOR 4.77, 95% CI: 1.35-16.86); and age ≥ 35 years (AOR 2.43, 95% CI: 1.41-4.19) were predictive of death. Conclusion: These findings illustrate the need for early diagnosis of HIV infection, appropriate treatment and prevention of opportunistic infections, and improved access to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART).
Comparative study among clinical and commensal isolates of Enterococcus faecalis for presence of esp gene and biofilm production
Authors: Upadhyaya Giridhara PM , Lingadevaru Umapathy B , Lingegowda Ravikumar K
Published: June 2011

Introduction: Because of increasing difficulty in treating enterococcal infections, effort is being devoted to understanding factors that are responsible for causing nosocomial infection, with a focus toward targeting these factors with new therapeutics. Evidence has emerged that the esp gene mediates biofilm formation in vitro, which helps the organism colonize and cause infection. Methodology: This study was conducted over a four-year period in a tertiary-care hospital. There were 200 clinical pathogenic strains isolated from nosocomial infections and 100 commensals from stool specimens of healthy individuals. The study compared the production of biofilm and detection of the esp gene among clinical and commensal isolates. Results: Among 200 clinical isolates of Enterococcus faecalis 65 (32.5%) isolates were positive for biofilm production and 60 (30%) for the esp gene by PCR. Among 100 commensal isolates, 16     (8%) and 14 (7%) were positive for biofilm formation and the esp gene, respectively. Five clinical and two commensal isolates produced biofilm without any amplification of the esp gene. Conclusion: The study shows a significant difference in production of biofilm and presence of the esp gene between clinical and commensal isolates (P < 0.002). Therefore, it can be concluded that biofilm production has an important role in causing nosocomial infection. Although detection of the esp gene correlates with biofilm production, it may not be the only factor determining the formation of biofilm since few isolates produced biofilm without the esp gene. Strains isolated from indwelling medical devices showed high production of biofilm and esp gene.
Public knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotic usage: a cross-sectional study among the general public in the state of Penang, Malaysia
Authors: Ling Oh Ai , Hassali Mohamed Azmi , Al-Haddad Mahmoud Sadi , Syed Sulaiman Syed Azhar , Shafie Asrul Akmal , Awaisu Ahmed
Published: June 2011

Introduction: Public knowledge and attitudes towards antibiotics play a vital role in the success of the treatment process. This study aimed to assess public knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotic usage which could serve as baseline data for future studies within a government hospital setting in Malaysia. Methodology: A self-administered cross-sectional survey involving 408 respondents was conducted using a validated questionnaire at an outpatient pharmacy department in Penang Hospital, Malaysia, from February to March 2009. Results: Nearly 55% of the respondents had a moderate level of knowledge. Three quarters of the respondents (76.7%) could correctly identify that antibiotics are indicated for the treatment of bacterial infections. However, 67.2% incorrectly thought that antibiotics are also used to treat viral infections. About 59.1% of the respondents were aware of antibiotic resistance phenomena in relation to overuse of antibiotics. With regard to attitudes, 38% believed that taking antibiotics when having cold symptoms could help them to recover faster, while 47.3% expected antibiotics to be prescribed for common cold symptoms. Age, race and educational level were among the demographic characteristics significantly associated with knowledge and attitudes toward antibiotic use. Poor level of knowledge was found in less than one-third of the respondents whereas more than one-third of the respondents wrongly self-medicate themselves with antibiotics once they have a cold. Conclusion: Educational interventions are needed to promote prudent use of antibiotics among the public.
Epidemiology of meningococcal disease in the Panamanian pediatric population, 1998-2008
Authors: Nieto-Guevara Javier , Luciani Kathia , Montesdeoca-Melían Abian , Mateos-Durán Mercedes
Published: June 2011

Introduction: Worldwide public health authorities report 500,000 cases of invasive meningococcal disease with 50,000 deaths per year and 10-15% of sequelae in people affected. This study describes the epidemiology, microbiology, and clinical presentation of this disease in the Panamanian pediatric population. Methodology:  The discharge of patients with a meningococcal invasive disease diagnosis was reviewed in the statistical database and archives of the Hospital del Niño. Results: A total of 32 discharges with a meningococcal disease diagnosis were reported during the study period (1998-2008).  Ninety-one percent (n/N = 29/32) were confirmed as meningitis. The mean age of patients was 4.1 ± 4.6 years. The incidence in the period of the study was 0.25/100,000. Infants younger than one year old presented the highest incidence rate and number of cases. Four deaths were reported, three of which occurred in the group of 10-14 years and one in the group of 1-4 years. The overall fatality rate was 12.5%. The serogroup of the causative agent, Neisseria meningitidis, was documented in 30 of the 32 cases, with serogroup B the most frequent (66.7%). Ninety-percent (18/20) of serogroup B were isolated in the first five years of study. Serogroup C was identified in 8 of the 12 cases during the period 2004-2008. Conclusions: The present study showed a change in the epidemiological circulation pattern from serogroup B to serogroup C during the study period. Such epidemiological surveillance data is important in the implementation of preventive measures such as vaccination.
Cyclospora cayetanensis: First report of imported and autochthonous infections in Kuwait
Authors: Iqbal Jamshaid , Hira Parsotam Ravjee , Al-Ali Faiza , Khalid Nabila
Published: June 2011

Introduction: The intestinal coccidian parasites Cryptosporidium spp. and Cyclospora cayetanensis have emerged as significant human pathogens worldwide. The reports of Cyclospora cayetanensis infection in the Middle East are sporadic and no case has been reported from Kuwait.  Methodology: Stool specimens were collected from six individuals presenting with watery diarrhoea of varying degree and severity at the District General hospitals, Kuwait. Four patients were male, two were female and their ages ranged from 5 to 64 years. Three cases were seen among the migrant population from the Indian subcontinent who had recently returned to Kuwait and two cases were seen in the local population with no history of travel abroad. The stool smears were stained with modified acid-fast stain and examined under ultraviolet (UV) fluorescence illumination. . Results: Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts with variable staining characteristics were detected by microscopy. Two of the cases were also associated with other enteric pathogens. Clinical suspicion of Cyclospora infection was not recorded for any of the cases. All patients showed remarkable symptomatic and parasitologic improvements upon treatment with trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. Conclusion: Cyclospora spp. are important aetiological agents of diarrhoea in the Middle East. An awareness of the parasitic infection and use of appropriate diagnostic modalities are essential to elucidate the clinical and epidemiological significance of the parasitosis in this geographic area.
Low prevalence of transfusion-transmissible infections among voluntary blood donors in South India
Authors: Mythreyee Manoharan , Jayachandran Chinnappan , Amudhan Murugesan , Sivashankar Moorthy , Mythily Nagasundaram , Sekar Ramalingam
Published: June 2011

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Nuevos datos de distribución de especies autóctonas de peces de agua dulce de España
Authors: Perea S. , Garzón P. , González J. L. , Almada V. C. , Pereira A. , Doadrio I.
Published: June 2011

Entre los años 2008 y 2010 hemos realizado un proyecto de monitorización para actualizar la base de datos de la ictiofauna continental española. Se ha llevado a cabo en 785 estaciones de muestreo cada año, repartidas homogéneamente por toda España. Entre los datos más sobresalientes se incluyen nuevas citas para algunas cuencas y ríos de España de Lampetra planeri, Petromyzon marinus, Barbus haasi, Iberochondrostoma lemmingii, Squalius alburnoides, Squalius carolitertii, Squalius malacitanus, Cobitis calderoni, Cobitis paludica y Salaria fluviatilis. También se ha confirmado la presencia de Barbatula barbatula en la cuenca del Duero y la adscripción de las poblaciones de este género del Noreste de la Península Ibérica a B. quignardi.
El primer catálogo español de especies protegidas (1896): análisis de su contenido y autoría de Graells
Authors: Ferrero-García J. J.
Published: June 2011

Se realiza un análisis crítico del número y composición de las aves estrictamente amparadas por la Real Orden de 25 de noviembre de 1896, por la que se creaba, por primera vez en España, un catálogo de especies legalmente protegidas. Se trata de un listado elaborado por un organismo público, entre cuyos componentes se encontraba Mariano de la Paz Graells, un emblemático naturalista español del siglo XIX. Se ha investigado en fuentes bibliográficas y archivos, hasta encontrar las pruebas documentales que vinculan a este ilustre científico con la primera norma española de protección de la fauna silvestre.
Resultados de la catalogación de los Scarabaeoidea Laparosticti (Insecta, Coleoptera) coprófagos de Marruecos y el Sáhara Occidental conservados en las colecciones del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales
Authors: Romero Samper J. , Cabrero-Sañudo F. J. , Lobo J. M. , Martín Albaladejo C. , Izquierdo Moya I.
Published: June 2011

Se ofrece el listado pormenorizado de las 120 especies de Scarabaeoidea coprófagos de Marruecos y el Sáhara Occidental (familias Aphodiidae, Geotrupidae y Scarabaeidae), depositadas en la colección de Entomología del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales de Madrid (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas), resultado de la catalogación del material presente en esta institución. Asimismo, se aportan mapas con la localización de dichos registros y se realiza un breve resumen histórico de los colectores y la procedencia de este material, examinando su evolución temporal y analizando la representatividad del mismo respecto al catálogo de especies conocidas de Marruecos para este grupo.
Non-destructive assessment of olive fruit ripening by portable near infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Gracia A. , León L.
Published: June 2011

The feasibility of portable near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) technology for the determination of oil and moisture contents in intact olive fruits was studied. A total of 144 and 112 samples were collected throughout the ripening period in two different olive cultivar trials. Spectral data were recorded in the wavelength region from 1100 to 2300 nm at 1 nm intervals under two different experimental conditions: on-tree in the field in Trial 1 and under laboratory room conditions in Trial 2. Calibration models were developed and evaluated using partial least squares (PLS) regression separately for each trial set and for the combined group of samples. Although slightly better results were obtained under laboratory room conditions, the results obtained on-tree in the field were also accurate enough to determine the optimal harvest date of each cultivar. The combined model showed predictive statistics within the range of the individual models (r=0.89 and RMSECV= 1.99 for oil content and r=0.88 and RMSECV=2.06 for moisture content), which could be considered acceptable as an increase in the model robustness could be expected. These results encourage the use of portable NIR spectroscopy to monitor olive fruit ripening and to decide the optimal harvesting date on the basis of oil and moisture content.
Nutritional and functional characteristics of gingerbread plum (Neocarya macrophylla): an underutilized oilseed
Authors: Amza T. , Amadou I. , Kamara M. T. , Zhu K. X. , Zhou H. M.
Published: June 2011

The In-vitro protein digestibility, protein nutritional quality and functional characteristics (protein solubility, water/oil binding capacity, emulsifying capacity and foaming capacity) of gingerbread plum and peanut seed flour were studied. Among the nutritional parameters, the proportion of essential amino acids to total amino acids (E/T), amino acid scores (AAS) and protein efficiency ratio (PER) were studied. Defatted gingerbread plum seed meal (DGPSM) showed a high nutritional quality with PER and AAS values of 2.35 and 65.53 respectively. The solubility profile of DGPSM was similar to that of defatted peanut meal (DPM), with minimum solubility observed at pH 4 and maximum solubility at pH 10 and higher. Water and oil holding capacities were 3.01 and 3.12; 2.96 and 3.11 g/g for DGPSM and DPM respectively. DGPSM showed good foaming capacity (145 mL /100 mL) and stability (110 mL /100 mL) even after 60 min at room temperature. The emulsifying capacity of DGPSM was 29%. Bulk densities were 0.30 and 0.28 g/mL for DGPSM and DPM respectively. Finally, DGPSM was easily hydrolyzed by trypsin in vitro. These results show that DGPSM has functional properties that may find applications in the food industry.
Influence of a vegetable fat blend on the texture, microstructure and sensory properties of kashar cheese
Authors: Dinkçi N. , Kesenkaş H. , Seçkin A. K. , Kınık Ö. , Gönç S.
Published: June 2011

The possibility of using a commercial vegetable fat blend in Kashar cheese was investigated. Kashar cheeses were manufactured by replacing the milk fat (MF) with a vegetable fat (VF) blend. Kashar cheeses from whole milk were also manufactured to compare textural, microstructural, meltability, color and sensory characteristics during a ripening period of 90 days. The use of vegetable fat decreased the meltability, hardness, cohesiveness, gumminess and chewiness of the cheese; while increasing adhesiveness where springiness was not affected. Differences became less notable toward the end of ripening. Scanning electron micrographs displayed VF cheese with a compact network with small and uniform fat globules embedded in the protein matrix. The MF cheese exhibited an open protein matrix containing milk fat globules of various sizes and forms. The color analysis demonstrated significant differences between cheeses. Finally, all sensory characteristics of the cheese were affecte d by the vegetable fat blend.
Evaluation of peanut hulls as an alternative to bleaching clays
Authors: Hassanein M. M. M. , El- Shami S. M. , Taha F. S.
Published: June 2011

Peanut hulls (PNH) were carbonized at different temperatures, times, and evaluated at different concentrations as an alternative to bleaching clays. Evaluation of bleached crude soybean oil with PNH was based on their delta free fatty acids, reduction in peroxide value (PV), reduction in phospholipids (PL) and bleachability. The performance of several commercially used bleaching clays was evaluated, for comparison. Mixtures were formulated including: PNH and Tonsil -N (TN), PNH and Fuller’s earth (FE) and PNH and O-passive (OP) and examined. The oxidative stability of oils was determined. Results for the investigated commercial bleaching clays revealed: TN > FE > F > TF > OP. Highest reduction in PV and PL, and highest bleachability were achieved for soybean oil bleached with 2% PNH carbonized at 500°C for 30 min (PNH”). Mixtures of PNH” with the three chosen bleaching clays indicated that 1PNH”: 2TN gave the highest bleachability. CSO was miscella bleached in hexane using PNH” and resulted in an appreciable improvement in all oil characteristics, especially in bleachability. Oxidative stability of oils was in the following order: TN > control > FE > PNH” with Induction period values of 23,1 > 6,43 > 5,73 > 2,85 h, respectively.
Modelado de las solicitaciones de los elementos estructurales de hormigón en edificios de gran altura en incendios reales
Authors: Capote Abreu J. A. , Alvear D. , Lázaro M. , Crespo J. , Fletcher I. , Welch S. , Torero J.
Published: June 2011

El incendio de la Torre Windsor de Madrid constituye un suceso paradigmático de incendios en edificios de gran altura. En el presente Estudio se analizan las condiciones de origen, desarrollo y propagación de incendios reales en este tipo de edificaciones, así como la determinación de las condiciones de exposición (temperaturas T , flujos de calor q,, etc.) a las que se encuentran sometidos los elementos estructurales, en condiciones de uso final en este tipo de estructuras, mediante la utilización de técnicas de modelado y simulación computacional de incendios.
Los trabajos realizados, se centraron en aquellas actuaciones que: 1) permitieran validar la capacidad predictiva de los modelos de fluido-dinámica empleados, 2) la aplicación de los modelos ajustados y validados a un escenario de incendio en condiciones de uso final en un edificio de gran altura, para la predicción de la respuesta mecánica de la trama estructural.
Incorporación de materiales de cambio de fase en placas de yeso para almacenamiento de energía térmica mediante calor latente: caracterización térmica del material mediante la técnica DSC
Authors: Oliver A. , Neila F. J. , García A.
Published: June 2011

La Calorimetría Diferencial de Barrido es una técnica de análisis térmico, usada desde hace décadas, para medir la entalpía asociada al cambio de fase de un material como función del tiempo y de la temperatura. Otras técnicas menos utilizadas son la Calorimetría Convencional el Análisis Térmico Diferencial.
Existe una gran incertidumbre en los valores de propiedades suministrados por los fabricantes (puesto que éstos se refieren a las sustancias puras) y es conveniente utilizar DSC para tener valores más exactos.
Se va a analizar la capacidad de almacenamiento térmico en función de la temperatura de varios materiales compuestos formados por los mismos agregados -principalmente yeso y material de cambio de fase- en distintas proporciones. Los valores obtenidos se comparan con otros materiales constructivos, yeso laminado y ladrillo.
También se verifica la idoneidad del nuevo material constructivo para el almacenamiento de energía térmica frente a otros materiales utilizados tradicionalmente para este fin.
Influencia de la ubicación de las aberturas en la eficiencia de la ventilación en viviendas
Authors: Meiss Alberto , Feijó Jesús
Published: June 2011

El proceso de ventilación incluye impulsar aire “limpio” y extraer el viciado a través de los cerramientos, distribuir y hacer circular el aire entrante y prevenir la contaminación interior. El Código Técnico de la Edificación, en su Sección HS3 – Calidad del Aire Interior, establece unos caudales mínimos de ventilación generalistas a cumplir en viviendas en función de su tipología, superficie, posibles fuentes contaminantes y número de ocupantes, sin considerar la trayectoria del aire desde su admisión hasta su extracción. Por dicha razón ocurre el hecho que, aunque se cumpla la Normativa en cuanto al recinto a ventilar, pueden existir zonas en el interior que presenten exceso o déficit de ventilación.
El estudio que se presenta tiene como objetivo superar el cumplimiento meramente cuantitativo del DB-HS3, para controlar cualitativamente la renovación del aire en todo el espacio habitable, lo que permite incluso reducir el caudal con el consiguiente ahorro energético.
La tecnología DGPS en la construcción: control de movimientos en grandes estructuras
Authors: Marchamalo M. , Galán D. , Sánchez J. A. , Martínez R.
Published: June 2011

La evolución conjunta de las tecnologías de auscultación y las telecomunicaciones está permitiendo el desarrollo de Sistemas de Auscultación Automática de estructuras. En este trabajo se analiza la viabilidad de la aplicación de la técnica DGPS a la auscultación en construcción. Se puede afirmar que el GPS diferencial es preciso y útil en la auscultación de grandes estructuras, como las presas, al reflejar adecuadamente el movimiento de las mismas, en comparación con los sensores geotécnicos. El empleo de DGPS en grandes estructuras puede proporcionar información sobre sus movimientos y deformaciones. Esta información puede estar disponible en tiempo real, con sistemas automáticos de medición y alarmas programadas para distintos umbrales de movimientos. Por todo ello, se considera que el DGPS es una tecnología complementaria para la auscultación de grandes estructuras, que puede integrarse con otros métodos geotécnicos o topográficos, tanto en la fase constructiva como en el seguimiento de las obras.
Actuaciones previas a la intervención en edificios históricos: dos ejemplos prácticos “Las Covachuelas” (Alcázar de Toledo) y Ayuntamiento del Cortijo de San Isidro (Aranjuez)
Authors: Macías V. , Martínez E.
Published: June 2011

En este artículo se hace una aproximación a la problemática de la intervención en edificios históricos. Intentaremos, por tanto, definir un proceso metodológico y documental para utilizarlo en las fases previas de estudio, diagnosis y comprensión del comportamiento del edificio.
Hemos planteado un estudio lo más pormenorizado posible de unos modelos, en los que nos vamos a encontrar toda la problemática, intentando extrapolar desde la concreción de unos ejemplos reales de suficiente entidad unas conclusiones concretas a un método general aplicable a construcciones similares.
Los ejemplos desarrollados son:
El Alcázar de Toledo, en concreto la zona conocida como las “Covachuelas” y de las bóvedas que se encuentran aún en la citada construcción.
El Cortijo de San Isidro en Aranjuez, en concreto el edificio del Ayuntamiento, objeto de una remodelación interior integral. Lo componen varias dependencias y terreno de cultivo creado en época de Carlos III como modelo de explotación agrícola.
Aprendiendo de BBPR. El diálogo con la historia y con el contexto en las obras construidas en Palermo
Authors: Trovato G.
Published: June 2011

El artículo propone un análisis de los edificios construidos por BBPR en la ciudad de Palermo entre 1960 y 1974. En estas obras, poco conocidas por su posición geográfica marginal y por tratarse del periodo final de su carrera,la relación entre el edificio y el espacio público se defiende como principal condición para la construcción de la ciudad moderna. BBPR aquí utilizan diversas estrategias: en algunos casos el recurso a la historia, entendida como catálogo de elementos tipificados, prevalece al diálogo con el contexto específico. En la última obra, el Palazzo Amoroso, predomina el proceso inverso: se renuncia al protagonismo formal a favor de la integración en el contexto a través de la articulación volumétrica y a un uso sapiente de los materiales. Se presenta aquí el resultado de la investigación realizada en los archivos del Ingeniero Amoroso, que introdujo al grupo milanés en Palermo y les encargó el edificio homónimo.
Trap response and genetic structure of eastern subterranean termites (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in Point Pelee National Park, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Raffoul Melissa , Hecnar Stephen J. , Prezioso Stephanie , Hecnar Darlene R. , Thompson Graham J.
Published: June 2011

Reticulitermes flavipes (Kollar) is best known throughout southwestern counties of Ontario, Canada, as an urban pest. Little is known, however, of the presence of this termite in nonurban settings in Ontario. In this study, we confirmed the existence of a population of R. flavipes on the shores of Lake Erie within Point Pelee National Park. A systematic trap survey conducted along the park's semi-vegetated west beach revealed several zones of termite activity. An analysis of trap response at one location indicated an association between termite activity and smaller sized, moderately decayed woody debris. Further, microsatellite DNA analysis suggested the presence of at least three genetically distinct colonies, each likely headed by multiple inbred reproductives. Together these data suggest that termite activity is linked to food quality, and that single colonies are potentially long-lived through multiple generations of inbreeding. Assuming it is derived from a population reported from Point Pelee in 1929, the study population is the oldest known eastern subterranean termite population in Ontario.
First Report of Anthelmintic Resistance in Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep from Costa Rica
Authors: Maroto R. , Jiménez A. E. , Romero J. J. , Alvarez V. , De Oliveira J. B. , Hernández J.
Published: June 2011

As the prevalence and severity of anthelmintic resistance continue to rise, nematode infections in sheep correspondingly reduce the profitability of the sheep industry. In Costa Rica, sheep production systems are increasing in both number and importance. A field trial study was carried out to detect the level of anthelmintic resistance to albendazole and ivermectin in gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) of sheep from seven farms in Costa Rica. Resistance was determined using the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT). Three treatment groups were assessed on each farm: control, albendazole, and ivermectin.Haemonchusspp. (71%),Strongyloidessp. (57%), andTrichostrongylusspp. (43%) presented resistance levels to albendazole, whereasStrongyloidessp. (43%),Haemonchusspp. (29%), andTrichostrongylusspp. (29%) were resistant to ivermectin.Haemonchusspp.,Strongyloidessp., andTrichostrongylusspp. were the most resistant GIN to both products. This study suggests that frequency of treatment, exclusive chemical control, and visual estimation of animal weight to calculate dosage may contribute to the high levels of anthelmintic resistance that were observed on the farms analyzed herein.
Tranexamic Acid Treatment of Life-Threatening Hematuria in Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: AlAmeel Turki , West Michael
Published: June 2011

A 41-year-old woman with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease had chronic kidney disease class IV. She presented 10 days postpartum with a 4-day history of severe hematuria, left flank pain, and anemia, hemoglobin 62 g/L. CT scan showed massively enlarged kidneys with multiple cysts; several cysts bilaterally had high attenuation consistent with hemorrhage. Hematuria persisted over several days despite intensive conservative measures that included vitamin K1, 4 units of plasma, transfusion of 10 units of packed RBCs, Darbopoeitin, and DDAVP. Antifibrinolytic therapy was given with tranexamic acid 1000 mg p.o. t.i.d for one day then OD. The hematuria stopped within 24 hours and did not recur after tranexamic acid therapy ended. Over the next 4 years there were 3 hospitalizations each with severe gross hematuria requiring blood transfusion for acute anemia. The hematuria responded well to further treatment with tranexamic acid. Tranexamic acid produces antifibrinolytic effects via complex interactions with plasminogen, displacing plasminogen from the fibrin surface. Chronic renal impairment is considered a relative contraindication to use of tranexamic acid due to reports of ureteric clots and acute renal failure from cortical necrosis. We conclude that tranexamic acid can be used safely in some patients with CKD and polycystic kidney disease to treat severe hematuria.
Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus
Authors: Leinonen Ville , Menon Lata G. , Carroll Rona S. , Dello Iacono Donna , Grevet Jeremy , Jääskeläinen Juha E. , Black Peter M.
Published: June 2011

The diagnosis of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is still challenging. Alzheimer′s disease (AD), along with vascular dementia, the most important differential diagnosis for iNPH, has several potential cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers which might help in the selection of patients for shunt treatment. The aim of this study was to compare a battery of CSF biomarkers including well‐known AD‐related proteins with CSF from patients with suspected iNPH collected from the external lumbar drainage test (ELD). A total of 35 patients with suspected iNPH patients were evaluated with ELD. CSF was collected in the beginning of the test, and the concentrations of total tau, ptau181, Aβ42, NFL, TNF‐α, TGFβ1, and VEGF were analysed by ELISA. Twenty‐six patients had a positive ELD result—that is, their gait symptoms improved; 9 patients had negative ELD. The levels of all analyzed CSF biomarkers were similar between the groups and none of them predicted the ELD result in these patients. Contrary to expectations lumbar CSF TNF‐α concentration was low in iNPH patients.
Trypanosoma cruzi Coexpressing Ornithine Decarboxylase and Green Fluorescence Proteins as a Tool to Study the Role of Polyamines in Chagas Disease Pathology
Authors: Barclay Jeremías José , Morosi Luciano Gastón , Vanrell María Cristina , Trejo Edith Corina , Romano Patricia Silvia , Carrillo Carolina
Published: June 2011

Polyamines are essential for Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. As T. cruzi behaves as a natural auxotrophic organism, it relies on host polyamines biosynthesis. In this paper we obtained a double-transfected T. cruzi parasite that expresses the green fluorescent protein (GFP) and a heterologous ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), used itself as a novel selectable marker. These autotrophic and fluorescent parasites were characterized; the ODC presented an apparent Km for ornithine of 0.51 ± 0.16 mM and an estimated Vmax value of 476.2 nmoles/h/mg of protein. These expressing ODC parasites showed higher metacyclogenesis capacity than the auxotrophic counterpart, supporting the idea that polyamines are engaged in this process. This double-transfected T. cruzi parasite results in a powerful tool—easy to follow by its fluorescence—to study the role of polyamines in Chagas disease pathology and in related processes such as parasite survival, invasion, proliferation, metacyclogenesis, and tissue spreading.
Renewed Global Partnerships and Redesigned Roadmaps for Rabies Prevention and Control
Authors: Lembo Tiziana , Attlan Michaël , Bourhy Hervé , Cleaveland Sarah , Costa Peter , de Balogh Katinka , Dodet Betty , Fooks Anthony R. , Hiby Elly , Leanes Fernando , Meslin François-Xavier , Miranda Mary Elizabeth , Müller Thomas , Nel Louis H. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Tordo Noël , Tumpey Abbigail , Wandeler Alexander , Briggs Deborah J.
Published: June 2011

Canine rabies, responsible for most human rabies deaths, is a serious global public health concern. This zoonosis is entirely preventable, but by focusing solely upon rabies prevention in humans, this “incurable wound” persists at high costs. Although preventing human deaths through canine rabies elimination is feasible, dog rabies control is often neglected, because dogs are not considered typical economic commodities by the animal health sector. Here, we demonstrate that the responsibility of managing rabies falls upon multiple sectors, that a truly integrated approach is the key to rabies elimination, and that considerable progress has been made to this effect. Achievements include the construction of global rabies networks and organizational partnerships; development of road maps, operational toolkits, and a blueprint for rabies prevention and control; and opportunities for scaling up and replication of successful programs. Progress must continue towards overcoming the remaining challenges preventing the ultimate goal of rabies elimination.
Chronic Proliferative Dermatitis in Mice: NFκB Activation Autoinflammatory Disease
Authors: Liang Yanhua
Published: June 2011

Autoinflammatory diseases are a heterogeneous group of congenital diseases characterized by the presence of recurrent inflammation, in the absence of infectious agents, detectable autoantibodies or antigen-specific autoreactive T-cells. SHARPIN deficient mice presents multiorgan chronic inflammation without known autoantibodies or autoreactive T-cells, designated Sharpincpdm. Histological studies demonstrated epidermal hyperproliferation, Th-2 inflammation, and keratinocyte apoptosis in this mutant. The mutant mice have decreased behavioral mobility, slower growth, and loss of body weight. Epidermal thickness and mitotic epidermal cells increase along with disease development. K5/K14 expression is distributed through all layers of epidermis, along with K6 expression in interfollicular epidermis, suggesting epidermal hyperproliferation. K1/K10 is only detectable in outer layers of spinosum epidermis, reflecting accelerated keratinocyte migration. Alpha smooth muscle actin is overexpressed in skin blood vessels, which may release the elevated white blood cells to dermis. CD3+CD45+ cells and granulocytes, especially eosinophils and mast cells, aggregate in the mutant skin. TUNEL assay, together with Annexin-V/propidium iodide FACS analysis, confirmed the increase of apoptotic keratinocytes in skin. These data validate and provide new lines of evidence of the proliferation-inflammation-apoptosis triad in Sharpincpdm mice, an NFκB activation autoinflammatory disease.
Mapping Historic Hookworm Disease Prevalence in the Southern Us, Comparing Percent Prevalence with Percent Soil Drainage Type Using GIS
Authors: Anderson Alice L. , Allen Thomas
Published: June 2011

Mapping of Historic US Hookworm prevalence data from the Rockefeller Sanitary Commission (early 1900s) using current GIS (Geographic Information System) software (county shape files) illustrates the extremely high prevalence of hookworm disease (Uncariasis) in the Southeastern US at the time. Some counties in 7 states recorded 50% to 100% of the population with positive screens for hookworm in a monumental surveillance and treatment campaign. Narrative descriptions mentioned higher prevalence in “sand districts” vs. “clay districts”. In order to validate this description for historic data, further GIS databases (STATSGO) were used to classify and quantify the % acreage in Eastern North Carolina falling into moderately- to well-drained soil types. These were then mapped and compared with the historic prevalence data. Most severely infested counties had at least 50% moderately to well-drained soil. Further analysis on soil data for other states with “coastal plains” could provide more background information on Environmental conditions for hookworm prevalence and distribution in US history.

“Since history has no properly scientific value, its only purpose is educative. And if historians neglect to educate the public, if they fail to interest it intelligently in the past, then all their historical learning is valueless except in so far as it educates themselves”. Trevelyan, (1922).
Patient and Health Care Provider Perspectives on Long Acting Injectable Antipsychotics in Schizophrenia and the Introduction of Olanzapine Long-Acting Injection
Authors: Wehring Heidi J. , Thedford Sheryl , Koola Maju , Kelly Deanna L.
Published: June 2011

Olanzapine long acting injection has joined risperidone and paliperidone as the second generation long acting antipsychotic injection options for treatment of patients with schizophrenia. Long acting injections are important alternatives to oral medications for patients who have difficulty adhering to daily or multiple daily medication administrations, yet may be underutilized or not well understood. Patient perceptions, adherence, and preferences are important issues for health care providers to address when discussing treatment options with their patients. Reviewed here are overall patient and health care provider attitudes and perceptions regarding long acting injections and the details of olanzapine long acting injectable, the newest agent, and how it will fit in the marketplace. In addition, efficacy, safety, dosing and use data regarding this newest long acting agent are reviewed and compared to other available long acting agents.
Irreducible Sp-representations and subgroup distortion in the mapping class group
Authors: Broaddus Nathan , Farb Benson , Putman Andrew
Published: June 2011

We prove that various subgroups of the mapping class group

\mathrm{Mod}(\Sigma)

of a surface

\Sigma

are at least exponentially distorted. Examples include the Torelli group (answering a question of Hamenstädt), the “point-pushing” and surface braid subgroups, and the Lagrangian subgroup. Our techniques include a method to compute lower bounds on distortion via representation theory and an extension of Johnson theory to arbitrary subgroups of

\mathrm{H}_1(\Sigma;\mathbb{Z})

.
Flat currents modulo $p$ in metric spaces and filling radius inequalities
Authors: Ambrosio Luigi , Katz Mikhail G.
Published: June 2011

We adapt the theory of currents in metric spaces, as developed by the first-mentioned author in collaboration with B. Kirchheim, to currents with coefficients in

ℤ_p

. We obtain isoperimetric inequalities

\mathrm{mod}\, (p)

in Banach spaces and we apply these inequalities to provide a proof of Gromov’s filling radius inequality which applies also to nonorientable manifolds. With this goal in mind, we use the Ekeland principle to provide quasi-minimizers of the mass

\mathrm{mod}\, (p)

in the homology class, and use the isoperimetric inequality to give lower bounds on the growth of their mass in balls.
Modules for $ℤ/p × ℤ/p$
Authors: Carlson Jon F. , Friedlander Eric M. , Suslin Andrei
Published: June 2011

We investigate various aspects of the modular representation theory of

ℤ/p × ℤ/p

with particular focus on modules of constant Jordan type. The special modules we consider and the constructions we introduce not only reveal some of the structure of

(ℤ/p × ℤ/p)

-modules but also provide a guide to further study of the representation theory of more general finite group schemes.
The braided Ptolemy–Thompson group is asynchronously combable
Authors: Funar Louis , Kapoudjian Christophe
Published: June 2011

The braided Ptolemy–Thompson group

T^{\star}

is an extension of the Thompson group

T

by the full braid group

B_{\infty}

on infinitely many strands and both of them can be viewed as mapping class groups of certain infinite planar surfaces. The main result of this article is that

T^{\star}

(and in particular

T

) is asynchronously combable. The result is new already for the group

T

. The method of proof is inspired by Lee Mosher’s proof of automaticity of mapping class groups.
Climate Variability and the Outbreaks of Cholera in Zanzibar, East Africa: A Time Series Analysis
Authors: Reyburn Rita , Kim Deok Ryun , Emch Michael , Khatib Ahmed , von Seidlein Lorenz , Ali Mohammad
Published: June 2011

Global cholera incidence is increasing, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. We examined the impact of climate and ocean environmental variability on cholera outbreaks, and developed a forecasting model for outbreaks in Zanzibar. Routine cholera surveillance reports between 1997 and 2006 were correlated with remotely and locally sensed environmental data. A seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model determined the impact of climate and environmental variability on cholera. The SARIMA model shows temporal clustering of cholera. A 1°C increase in temperature at 4 months lag resulted in a 2-fold increase of cholera cases, and an increase of 200 mm of rainfall at 2 months lag resulted in a 1.6-fold increase of cholera cases. Temperature and rainfall interaction yielded a significantly positive association (P < 0.04) with cholera at a 1-month lag. These results may be applied to forecast cholera outbreaks, and guide public health resources in controlling cholera in Zanzibar.
The Variability of Childhood Diarrhea in Karachi, Pakistan, 2002–2006
Authors: Luby Stephen P. , Agboatwalla Mubina , Hoekstra Robert M.
Published: June 2011

Diarrhea burden is often estimated using cross-sectional surveys. We measured variability in diarrhea prevalence among children < 5 years of age living in squatter settlements in central Karachi, Pakistan. We pooled data from non-intervention control households from studies conducted from 2002 through 2006. The prevalence of diarrhea varied on average by 29% from one week to the next, by 37% from one month to the next, and during peak diarrhea season by 32% from one year to the next. During 24 months when the same nine neighborhoods were under surveillance, each month the prevalence of diarrhea varied by at least an order of magnitude from the lowest to the highest prevalence neighborhood, and each neighborhood recorded the highest diarrhea prevalence during at least one month. Cross-sectional surveys are unreliable measures of diarrhea prevalence.
The Aftermath of the Western Australian Melioidosis Outbreak
Authors: Inglis Timothy J. J. , O'Reilly Lyn , Merritt Adam J. , Levy Avram , Heath Christopher
Published: June 2011

Melioidosis became a notifiable disease in Western Australia (WA) 2 years after the West Kimberley melioidosis outbreak. Two cases of melioidosis caused by the outbreak genotype of Burkholderia pseudomallei (National Collection of Type Cultures [NCTC] 13177) occurred in 1998 and 1999 in persons who visited the outbreak location at the time. No other infections caused by the outbreak strain have been recorded in WA since that time, despite an average of four culture-positive cases per year. Sporadic cases of melioidosis often follow tropical storms and cyclones during summer, and they have been detected outside the endemic area when cyclones travel far inland. In 2007, environmental isolates resembling NCTC 13177 were found 500 km east of the outbreak location after unusually severe weather. Recent whole-genome analysis places NCTC 13177 genetically close to other Australian isolates. Additional biogeographic and ecological studies are needed to establish the relative importance of environmental cofactors in disease pathogenesis.
Phylogenetics of the Phlebotomine Sand Fly Group Verrucarum (Diptera: Psychodidae: Lutzomyia)
Authors: Cohnstaedt Lee W. , Beati Lorenza , Caceres Abraham G. , Ferro Cristina , Munstermann Leonard E.
Published: June 2011

Within the sand fly genus Lutzomyia, the Verrucarum species group contains several of the principal vectors of American cutaneous leishmaniasis and human bartonellosis in the Andean region of South America. The group encompasses 40 species for which the taxonomic status, phylogenetic relationships, and role of each species in disease transmission remain unresolved. Mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (COI) phylogenetic analysis of a 667-bp fragment supported the morphological classification of the Verrucarum group into series. Genetic sequences from seven species were grouped in well-supported monophyletic lineages. Four species, however, clustered in two paraphyletic lineages that indicate conspecificity—the Lutzomyia longiflocosa–Lutzomyia sauroida pair and the Lutzomyia quasitownsendi–Lutzomyia torvida pair. COI sequences were also evaluated as a taxonomic tool based on interspecific genetic variability within the Verrucarum group and the intraspecific variability of one of its members, Lutzomyia verrucarum, across its known distribution.
Transmission Potential of Two Chimeric Chikungunya Vaccine Candidates in the Urban Mosquito Vectors, Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus
Authors: Darwin Justin R. , Kenney Joan L. , Weaver Scott C.
Published: June 2011

Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is an emerging, mosquito-borne alphavirus that has caused major epidemics in Africa and Asia. We developed chimeric vaccine candidates using the non-structural protein genes of either Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) attenuated vaccine strain TC-83 or a naturally attenuated strain of eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and the structural genes of CHIKV. Because the transmission of genetically modified live vaccine strains is undesirable because of the potentially unpredictable evolution of these viruses as well as the potential for reversion, we evaluated the ability of these vaccines to infect the urban CHIKV vectors, Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Both vaccine candidates exhibited significantly lower infection and dissemination rates compared with the parent alphaviruses. Intrathoracic inoculations indicated that reduced infectivity was mediated by midgut infection barriers in both species. These results indicate a low potential for transmission of these vaccine strains in the event that a vaccinee became viremic.